Acute and subacute allergic otitis media, recur, unsp ear

This code signifies a recurring inflammatory condition of the middle ear, specifically triggered by an allergic response. The inflammation can manifest with various fluid types, including mucus, blood, or serous fluid, and is characterized by its acute or subacute nature. The "unspecified ear" designation indicates that the laterality of the condition is not documented.

Apply this code when documentation clearly indicates recurrent allergic otitis media, whether mucoid, sanguinous, or serous, without specifying the affected ear. This diagnosis is typically made based on patient history of recurrent ear infections linked to allergens, along with clinical examination findings of middle ear inflammation and fluid. Use when the provider has not specified right or left ear.

• Ensure documentation specifies "recurrent" and "allergic" to differentiate from other forms of otitis media.
• If the laterality (right or left ear) is documented, use the more specific codes H65.111 (right) or H65.112 (left).
• Consider additional codes for identified allergens (e.g., Z91.010 for allergy to peanuts) if documented as causative.