Ototoxic hearing loss, bilateral

This code signifies hearing impairment in both ears resulting from exposure to substances toxic to the inner ear (ototoxic agents). This damage can affect the cochlea, vestibular system, or auditory nerve, leading to sensorineural hearing loss.

Apply this code when documentation explicitly states bilateral hearing loss caused by ototoxic medications (e.g., aminoglycosides, loop diuretics, chemotherapy) or other chemical exposures. Supporting documentation should include a clear etiology linking the hearing loss to an ototoxic agent and specify the bilateral nature of the impairment.

• Ensure documentation specifies "bilateral" involvement; otherwise, a unilateral or unspecified code may be more appropriate.
• Always code the underlying cause (e.g., poisoning by drug, adverse effect of drug) in addition to this code, if known and applicable.
• Distinguish from other forms of sensorineural hearing loss where an ototoxic etiology is not documented.