Postmeasles otitis media

This code signifies an acute inflammation of the middle ear that develops as a direct complication or sequela of a measles infection. It typically presents with ear pain, fever, and sometimes discharge, occurring during or shortly after the systemic manifestations of rubeola.

This code is appropriate when documentation clearly links a diagnosis of otitis media to a preceding or concurrent measles infection. Look for physician notes explicitly stating "postmeasles otitis media" or "otitis media due to measles." It should be used when the measles infection is the causative agent.

• Always sequence the measles code (e.g., 055.9) first, followed by this code, to establish the causal link.
• Differentiate from otitis media due to other viral or bacterial etiologies; the documentation must specify measles.
• Do not use for otitis media occurring coincidentally with measles without a clear causative link.