Acute serous otitis media, recurrent, left ear

This code signifies an acute inflammation of the middle ear, characterized by the presence of serous (thin, watery) fluid, specifically occurring in the left ear and having a history of recurring episodes. It indicates a non-suppurative middle ear effusion that has presented multiple times.

Apply this code when documentation clearly states a diagnosis of acute serous otitis media affecting the left ear, and explicitly mentions that the condition is recurrent. This typically occurs in patients experiencing repeated episodes of middle ear fluid without signs of active infection, often following an upper respiratory infection.

• Ensure documentation specifies "acute" and "recurrent" for accurate code assignment.
• Laterality is crucial; verify "left ear" is documented.
• Distinguish from chronic serous otitis media (H65.2-) or other forms of otitis media (e.g., suppurative, mucoid).