Acute serous otitis media, bilateral

This code signifies an acute inflammation of both middle ears characterized by the presence of thin, watery fluid without signs of infection. It represents a non-purulent effusion that typically develops rapidly.

Apply this code when documentation clearly indicates acute serous otitis media affecting both ears. Supporting documentation should specify the acute nature and the serous (non-purulent) characteristic of the middle ear effusion.

• Differentiate from acute suppurative otitis media (H66.0-) which involves purulent discharge.
• Ensure the documentation explicitly states "bilateral" to support this specific code.
• Do not use for chronic serous otitis media (H65.2-) or unspecified laterality.