Find information on Otitis Externa Right Ear diagnosis, including clinical documentation, medical coding, ICD-10 H60.31, and swimmer's ear treatment. Learn about symptoms, causes, and healthcare best practices for right ear otitis externa. This resource provides accurate medical information for physicians, coders, and other healthcare professionals.
Also known as
Diseases of external ear
Covers infections and other disorders of the outer ear.
Diseases of middle ear and mastoid
Includes conditions affecting the middle ear and mastoid process, sometimes related to outer ear.
Diseases of respiratory system
Respiratory infections can sometimes cause or complicate outer ear infections.
Follow this step-by-step guide to choose the correct ICD-10 code.
Is the right otitis externa infectious?
Yes
Is it specified as acute?
No
Is it due to contact with a substance?
When to use each related code
| Description |
|---|
| Otitis Externa Right Ear |
| Otitis Externa Left Ear |
| Otitis Externa Bilateral |
Incorrectly coding left ear (H60.92) or unspecified (H60.90) instead of right ear (H60.91), leading to claim rejections.
Coding otitis externa NOS (H60.9) when a more specific diagnosis like infective (H60.0) or malignant (H60.8) is documented.
Failing to document and code causative agents like bacterial (B95.8) or fungal (B44.89) infections alongside otitis externa.
Q: How can I differentiate between otitis externa right ear and acute otitis media in a pediatric patient presenting with ear pain and otorrhea?
A: Differentiating between otitis externa of the right ear and acute otitis media (AOM) in a child requires a thorough clinical examination. While both present with ear pain, key distinguishing features include the presence of otorrhea, which is more common in otitis externa, and the appearance of the tympanic membrane. In otitis externa, the tympanic membrane is typically normal or slightly erythematous, whereas in AOM, it appears bulging, opaque, and erythematous with impaired mobility. Tenderness on tragal palpation or pinna manipulation is highly suggestive of otitis externa, while this maneuver is usually not painful in AOM. Consider implementing a pneumatic otoscopy to assess tympanic membrane mobility, which can help further differentiate between the two conditions. Explore how a detailed history, focusing on recent swimming or trauma to the ear canal, can aid in diagnosis. Learn more about the specific otoscopic findings associated with various ear infections.
Q: What are the evidence-based first-line treatment options for uncomplicated otitis externa right ear in adults, and when should I consider oral antibiotics?
A: For uncomplicated otitis externa of the right ear in adults, topical antibiotic ear drops are the evidence-based first-line treatment. These drops, containing antibiotics like ciprofloxacin or ofloxacin, effectively target the common bacterial pathogens involved. Thorough cleaning of the ear canal before instillation improves medication efficacy. Oral antibiotics are generally reserved for cases with extensive cellulitis extending beyond the ear canal, significant periauricular lymphadenopathy, fever, or immunocompromised status. Consider implementing a pain management strategy incorporating nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) for symptomatic relief. Explore the current clinical guidelines for managing otitis externa, which provide specific recommendations for antibiotic selection and duration of therapy.
Patient presents with complaints consistent with right ear otitis externa. Symptoms include otalgia, pruritus, aural fullness, and otorrhea in the right ear. On examination, the right ear canal exhibits erythema, edema, and debris. The tympanic membrane is visualized and appears normal, ruling out otitis media. Tenderness is noted on palpation of the tragus and manipulation of the pinna. No cervical lymphadenopathy is appreciated. Diagnosis of otitis externa right ear is made based on clinical presentation and physical exam findings. Swimmer's ear and outer ear infection are considered in the differential diagnosis. Treatment plan includes topical antibiotic ear drops with hydrocortisone for seven days. Patient education provided on proper ear drop administration and avoidance of water exposure to the affected ear. Follow-up appointment scheduled in one week to assess response to therapy. ICD-10 code H60.91, unspecified otitis externa, right ear, is assigned. CPT codes for the evaluation and management visit will be determined based on complexity of medical decision making.