Other and unspecified chronic nonsuppurative otitis media

This code signifies a persistent, non-infectious inflammation of the middle ear that does not involve pus formation. It encompasses various forms of chronic middle ear disease that are not specifically categorized elsewhere, often characterized by fluid accumulation or mucosal changes.

Apply this code for diagnoses such as chronic serous otitis media, chronic mucoid otitis media, or chronic middle ear effusion when a more specific diagnosis is not documented. Documentation should clearly indicate the chronicity and the non-suppurative nature of the middle ear inflammation.

• Differentiate from acute otitis media (382.xx) and chronic suppurative otitis media (382.xx) based on documentation of duration and presence of pus.
• Always review documentation for laterality (e.g., right, left, bilateral) if specified, though this code does not allow for laterality distinction.
• Consider using an additional code for any associated hearing loss (e.g., 389.xx) if documented.