Acute and subacute allergic otitis media (serous), r ear

This code signifies inflammation of the middle ear, specifically the right ear, caused by an allergic reaction. The inflammation can be acute (sudden onset, short duration) or subacute (less severe than acute, lasting longer), and may involve various fluid types such as mucoid, sanguinous, or serous effusions.

Apply this code when documentation clearly indicates allergic otitis media affecting the right ear, with a specified acute or subacute presentation. Supporting documentation should include physician notes detailing the allergic etiology, laterality, and the acute or subacute nature of the condition.

• Ensure documentation explicitly states an allergic cause; otherwise, consider non-allergic otitis media codes.
• Verify laterality. This code is specific to the right ear; use H65.112 for the left ear and H65.113 for bilateral.
• Distinguish between acute/subacute and chronic allergic otitis media (H65.41-).