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H60.0 – Abscess of the External Ear | ICD-10
H60.0 is the ICD-10 code for an abscess of the external ear, also known as a furuncle of the ear canal – a painful, localized bacterial infection.
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H60.0 is the ICD-10 code for an abscess of the external ear, also known as a furuncle of the ear canal – a painful, localized bacterial infection.
What is H60.0?
The ICD-10 code H60.0 refers to an abscess of the external ear (otitis externa abscedens), commonly known as a furuncle of the ear canal. It describes a localized, pus-filled bacterial infection affecting the outer ear canal, typically arising from an infected hair follicle or sebaceous gland. This condition falls under the broader category of otitis externa – inflammation of the external ear.
Causes
The most common causative organism is Staphylococcus aureus, a bacterium naturally found on the skin. Contributing risk factors include:
- Minor trauma to the ear canal (e.g., from cotton swabs or fingernails)
- Excessive moisture in the ear (e.g., after swimming)
- A weakened immune system
- Diabetes mellitus
- Over-cleaning of the ear canal, which removes the protective cerumen (earwax)
Symptoms
A furuncle in the ear canal typically presents with:
- Severe, throbbing ear pain that worsens when pulling on the outer ear or chewing
- Swelling and redness inside the ear canal
- Purulent (pus-like) discharge if the abscess ruptures spontaneously
- Partial hearing loss due to canal obstruction
- General malaise and occasionally fever
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is typically made through otoscopic examination – visual inspection of the ear canal using an otoscope – performed by an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist. A localized, red swelling with a central area of pus is usually visible. A swab for culture and blood tests may be taken if systemic involvement is suspected.
Treatment
Treatment depends on the severity of the infection:
Conservative Management
- Warm compresses applied to the ear to encourage the abscess to mature
- Antibiotic ear drops or systemic antibiotics (e.g., flucloxacillin or amoxicillin-clavulanate) for more extensive infections
- Pain relief with ibuprofen or paracetamol to manage discomfort
Surgical Treatment
- Incision and drainage: Once the abscess has matured, a small incision is made by an ENT specialist to drain the pus and relieve pressure.
When to See a Doctor
Anyone experiencing severe ear pain, purulent discharge, fever, or sudden hearing loss should seek prompt medical attention. Self-treatment or attempts to manipulate the ear canal can worsen the condition and may lead to complications such as spreading of the infection to surrounding tissues.
References
- World Health Organization (WHO): International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems, 10th Revision (ICD-10), H60 – Otitis externa.
- Bhatt, J.M. et al.: Diseases of the External Ear. In: Flint PW et al. (eds.), Cummings Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery, 7th Edition, Elsevier, 2021.
- Rosenfeld, R.M. et al.: Clinical Practice Guideline: Acute Otitis Externa. Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery, 2014. DOI: 10.1177/0194599813517083.
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