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ICD Hub / Diseases of the ear or mastoid process (H60–H95) / AA13 - Chronic otitis externa
ICD-11

ICD-11 Codes
for AA13 - Chronic otitis externa
Teodor Jurukovski January 1, 1970
Fact checked by: Teodor Jurukovski
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Chronic Otitis Externa (AA13): An Overview

Chronic otitis externa is defined as a persistent inflammation of the external ear canal, typically lasting longer than three months. This condition, identified by the ICD-11 code AA13, involves ongoing irritation and swelling of the delicate skin lining the ear canal. It is distinct from acute forms and can significantly affect an individual's comfort and hearing.

Factors Contributing to Persistent Ear Canal Inflammation

The development of chronic otitis externa can stem from various factors. While acute cases are often bacterial or fungal, chronic forms may be linked to allergies or inflammatory dermatological conditions. Persistent irritation from factors like hearing aids, earplugs, or frequent water exposure can damage the ear canal's protective skin, increasing susceptibility. Individuals with conditions such as eczema or dermatitis may also be at higher risk for developing this prolonged inflammation.

Symptoms Associated with Chronic Outer Ear Inflammation

Patients experiencing chronic otitis externa often report a range of persistent symptoms. These commonly include:
  • Ongoing ear pain, which can be severe
  • Persistent itching within and around the ear canal
  • A feeling of fullness or pressure in the ear
  • Discharge from the ear, which may be watery or thick
  • Scaling of the skin in the ear canal
Tenderness upon touching the outer ear or moving the jaw may also occur.

Diagnosing Persistent Ear Canal Inflammation

The diagnosis of chronic otitis externa is typically made through a thorough clinical examination. Healthcare providers will assess the symptoms and visually inspect the ear canal using an otoscope. A history of prolonged symptoms and potential contributing factors is crucial. In some cases, a swab of the ear canal may be taken to identify specific infectious agents or to guide treatment, particularly if initial therapies are ineffective.

Management and Treatment Strategies for Chronic Otitis Externa

Effective management of chronic otitis externa focuses on reducing inflammation and treating any underlying causes. This often involves thorough cleaning of the ear canal to remove debris and scale. Topical treatments, such as antibiotic or corticosteroid ear drops, are frequently prescribed to combat infection and inflammation. Addressing contributing factors, like managing allergies or adjusting the use of hearing aids, is also vital for long-term resolution. Patients are advised to keep the affected ear dry and avoid inserting objects into it.

ICD-11 Coding and Documentation for Chronic Otitis Externa

For accurate medical billing and record-keeping, the ICD-11 code AA13 is used to denote chronic otitis externa. This specific code helps healthcare providers document the condition precisely, facilitating appropriate reimbursement and tracking of patient care. When documenting, clinicians may use terms such as 'long-standing outer ear infection' or 'persistent inflammation of the ear canal' alongside the official diagnosis. This ICD-11 code for chronic otitis externa ensures clear communication in healthcare settings.

Frequently asked questions

What is the ICD-11 classification for Chronic otitis externa?
Chronic otitis externa is classified under ICD-11 code AA13. This code is part of the broader Otitis externa category, which spans codes AA10-AA3Z.
How does ICD-11 differentiate between various forms of otitis externa?
ICD-11 distinguishes between different forms of otitis externa through specific codes, including seborrhoeic otitis externa (AA10), acute noninfectious otitis externa (AA11), chondrodermatitis nodularis (AA12), chronic otitis externa (AA13), and other specified otitis externa (AA1Y). An unspecified category (AA3Z) is also available.
Under what circumstances should unspecified or 'other' categories be used for otitis externa in ICD-11 coding?
The unspecified category, such as Otitis externa, unspecified (AA3Z), is used when the available documentation lacks the detail to assign a more specific code, like Chronic otitis externa (AA13). The 'Other specified otitis externa' category (AA1Y) is applied when the condition is identified but does not align with any other defined categories within the Otitis externa classification block.
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