Measles complicated by otitis media

This code identifies measles infection that has led to the development of otitis media as a complication. It signifies a direct causal link between the viral illness (measles) and the subsequent ear infection.

Apply this code when documentation clearly states a diagnosis of measles with an associated otitis media. This typically occurs in pediatric patients experiencing acute measles who then develop ear pain, fever, or other signs of middle ear infection. The physician's notes should explicitly link the otitis media to the measles.

• Always sequence the measles code first, as it is the underlying condition causing the otitis media.
• Ensure the documentation specifies "with otitis media" or similar language indicating a direct complication, not just co-occurrence.
• Do not use this code if the otitis media is unrelated to the measles infection; instead, code each condition separately.