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H60.5 – Acute Otitis Externa: Causes & Treatment
H60.5 is the ICD-10 code for acute otitis externa – an acute inflammation of the external ear canal, commonly caused by bacteria or fungi.
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H60.5 is the ICD-10 code for acute otitis externa – an acute inflammation of the external ear canal, commonly caused by bacteria or fungi.
What is H60.5?
The ICD-10 code H60.5 refers to acute otitis externa – an acute inflammation of the external ear canal, the passage between the outer ear and the eardrum. This condition typically develops within a few days and is characterized by pain, swelling, and discharge. It is one of the most frequently diagnosed ear conditions in clinical practice and responds well to appropriate treatment.
Causes
The most common causes of acute otitis externa include:
- Bacterial infections: Most frequently caused by Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus.
- Fungal infections (otomycosis): Caused by molds or yeasts such as Candida or Aspergillus.
- Moisture in the ear canal: Frequent swimming or bathing can disrupt the protective environment of the ear canal, leading to the so-called swimmer's ear.
- Mechanical irritation: Improper cleaning of the ear canal with cotton swabs or other objects.
- Allergic reactions: To hearing aids, earrings, or ear drops.
- Skin conditions: Such as eczema or psoriasis affecting the ear canal.
Symptoms
Typical symptoms of acute otitis externa include:
- Ear pain (otalgia), often worsened when touching or pulling the outer ear
- Itching inside the ear canal
- Swelling of the ear canal
- Ear discharge (otorrhea), which may be watery or purulent
- Reduced hearing due to swelling or accumulation of secretions
- Redness and warmth around the ear
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is usually established through an otoscopic examination, in which a physician uses an otoscope to directly visualize the ear canal and assess redness, swelling, and discharge. In recurrent or severe cases, a swab sample may be taken for microbiological analysis to identify the causative organism.
Treatment
Treatment depends on the underlying cause and severity of the condition:
- Antibiotic ear drops (e.g., ciprofloxacin or neomycin) for bacterial infections
- Antifungal ear drops for fungal infections
- Corticosteroid-containing drops to reduce swelling and inflammation
- Pain relief with ibuprofen or paracetamol for ear pain management
- Ear irrigation to remove debris and secretions (performed by a healthcare professional only)
- Keeping the ear dry during the treatment period
In severe cases or in immunocompromised patients, systemic antibiotic therapy may be required.
When to See a Doctor
Medical advice should be sought if:
- the pain is severe or worsening
- fever is present
- symptoms do not improve within a few days
- hearing loss occurs
- dizziness or balance problems are experienced
References
- World Health Organization (WHO): ICD-10 Version 2019, Chapter VIII – Diseases of the Ear and Mastoid Process (H60–H95). Available at: https://icd.who.int
- Schaefer P, Baugh RF. Acute Otitis Externa: An Update. American Family Physician. 2012;86(11):1055-1061.
- Rosenfeld RM, Schwartz SR, Cannon CR, et al. Clinical Practice Guideline: Acute Otitis Externa. Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery. 2014;150(1 Suppl):S1-S24.
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