Other chronic nonsuppurative otitis media, bilateral

This code signifies a persistent, non-infectious inflammation of the middle ear affecting both ears. It involves conditions like serous otitis media or mucoid otitis media that have become chronic, without evidence of pus formation. This chronic inflammation can lead to fluid accumulation behind the eardrum.

Use this code when documentation specifies chronic otitis media that is non-suppurative and affects both the left and right ears. This typically applies to conditions like chronic serous otitis media or chronic mucoid otitis media. Supporting documentation should clearly indicate the chronicity and bilateral involvement.

• Differentiate from acute forms (H65.0-H65.1-) and suppurative forms (H66.-).
• Ensure documentation explicitly states "bilateral" involvement; otherwise, use the appropriate unilateral code (H65.491 or H65.492).
• If the specific type of chronic nonsuppurative otitis media is documented (e.g., serous, mucoid), use the more specific code from the H65.2- or H65.3- categories if bilateral.