Chronic perichondritis of right external ear

This code signifies a persistent inflammatory condition affecting the perichondrium, the connective tissue covering the cartilage of the right outer ear. It indicates a long-standing or recurrent inflammation, rather than an acute episode.

Apply this code when documentation specifies chronic inflammation of the perichondrium of the right external ear. Supporting documentation would include physician notes detailing the duration, recurrence, or persistent nature of the perichondritis, specifically affecting the right ear.

• Ensure documentation clearly specifies "chronic" and "right external ear" to differentiate from acute or unspecified perichondritis.
• Do not use for inflammation of the ear canal (otitis externa) or middle ear (otitis media).
• Consider co-reporting with codes for underlying causes, such as trauma or infection, if documented.