Acute contact otitis externa, unspecified ear

This code signifies an acute inflammation of the external ear canal resulting from direct contact with an irritant or allergen. It presents with symptoms such as pain, itching, redness, and swelling of the ear canal, without specifying which ear is affected.

Use this code when documentation clearly indicates acute otitis externa caused by contact, but the specific ear (left or right) is not documented. This diagnosis is often made after exposure to substances like certain ear drops, jewelry, or chemicals.

• Avoid using this code if the laterality (left or right ear) is specified in the medical record; instead, choose the more specific H60.531 or H60.532.
• Ensure the documentation supports an "acute" presentation and a "contact" etiology, differentiating it from other forms of otitis externa.
• Do not use for chronic contact otitis externa (H60.54- series) or other specified types of otitis externa.