Suppurative otitis media, unspecified, bilateral

This code signifies an acute or chronic inflammatory process of the middle ear characterized by the presence of pus or purulent discharge, affecting both ears. The specific type or cause of the suppurative otitis media is not documented.

Apply this code when documentation indicates bilateral purulent middle ear infection without further specification of its nature (e.g., acute, chronic, recurrent). This is appropriate when the provider has not specified laterality or when the documentation explicitly states "bilateral" and "unspecified suppurative otitis media."

• Avoid using this code if the documentation specifies whether the otitis media is acute or chronic; instead, use a more specific code from the H66.0-H66.3 series.
• Ensure the medical record clearly indicates bilateral involvement and the presence of pus or purulent discharge.
• Do not confuse with serous or mucoid otitis media, which are coded elsewhere (e.g., H65.- series).