Otorrhea, right ear

This code signifies the discharge of fluid from the right ear, commonly known as ear discharge. This fluid can vary in consistency and color, indicating underlying conditions such as infection, inflammation, or trauma affecting the external auditory canal, middle ear, or mastoid.

Apply this code when documentation explicitly states otorrhea originating from the right ear. This is appropriate for conditions like acute otitis media with perforation, chronic suppurative otitis media, or external otitis when discharge is present and localized to the right side. Supporting documentation should clearly specify the laterality of the ear discharge.

• Always confirm laterality; do not default to unspecified if right or left is documented.
• Code any underlying condition causing the otorrhea first, if known and documented.
• Distinguish from otalgia (ear pain) or other ear symptoms; this code is specifically for discharge.