Otitis externa in oth diseases classd elswhr, bilateral

This code signifies inflammation of the external ear canal in both ears, when this otitis externa is a manifestation or complication of another underlying systemic disease. This indicates the otitis is secondary to a primary condition classified elsewhere in the ICD-10-CM system.

Apply this code when documentation specifies bilateral otitis externa and explicitly links it to an underlying systemic disease, such as diabetes mellitus, psoriasis, or an immunocompromised state. The medical record must clearly state the causal relationship between the systemic condition and the otitis externa.

• Always sequence the underlying systemic disease code first, followed by this code.
• Ensure documentation specifies "bilateral" involvement; otherwise, use a unilateral or unspecified code.
• Do not use this code for primary otitis externa or otitis externa due to local causes.