Other chronic suppurative otitis media, unspecified ear

This code signifies a persistent, purulent inflammation of the middle ear that is not otherwise specified as to the specific type of chronic suppurative otitis media. It indicates an ongoing infection with discharge, without further detail regarding cholesteatoma, attic perforation, or other specific forms. The laterality of the affected ear is not documented.

Use this code when documentation confirms chronic suppurative otitis media but lacks specificity regarding the exact type (e.g., tubotympanic, atticoantral) or the presence of cholesteatoma. This code is appropriate when the physician's notes simply state "chronic suppurative otitis media" without further elaboration on the specific anatomical involvement or characteristics of the disease.

• Avoid using this code if documentation specifies a more precise type of chronic suppurative otitis media (e.g., with cholesteatoma, tubotympanic).
• Always query the provider for greater specificity regarding the type and laterality of chronic suppurative otitis media if not clearly documented.
• This code should be used when laterality is truly unspecified, not merely unrecorded. If laterality is known but not documented, a query is warranted.