-
DE
H90.1 - Unilateral Conductive Hearing Loss
H90.1 is the ICD-10 code for unilateral conductive hearing loss with normal hearing on the contralateral side. It is caused by impaired sound transmission in the outer or middle ear.
Add as Preferred SourceThings worth knowing about "H90.1"
H90.1 is the ICD-10 code for unilateral conductive hearing loss with normal hearing on the contralateral side. It is caused by impaired sound transmission in the outer or middle ear.
Definition and ICD-10 Code H90.1
H90.1 is a diagnostic code from the International Classification of Diseases (ICD-10) and refers to unilateral conductive hearing loss with normal hearing on the opposite (contralateral) side. In conductive hearing loss, the mechanical transmission of sound waves from the outer ear through the middle ear to the inner ear is disrupted, while the auditory nerve and inner ear themselves are typically intact.
Causes
Conductive hearing loss classified under H90.1 can result from a variety of conditions:
- Otitis media (middle ear infection): One of the most common causes, particularly in children. Fluid or pus in the middle ear impairs the vibration of the ossicles.
- Earwax blockage (cerumen impaction): Obstruction of the ear canal by accumulated earwax.
- Otosclerosis: A condition in which abnormal bone growth, particularly around the stapes (stirrup), limits the movement of the ossicles.
- Tympanic membrane perforation: A hole or tear in the eardrum, often resulting from infections or injury.
- Otitis media with effusion (glue ear): Accumulation of fluid in the middle ear without signs of acute infection.
- Congenital malformations: Structural abnormalities of the outer or middle ear present from birth.
Symptoms
Typical symptoms of H90.1 include:
- One-sided hearing reduction, particularly noticeable during conversations and in noisy environments
- A sensation of fullness or blockage in the affected ear
- Muffled or dampened hearing (as if hearing through cotton wool)
- Occasional tinnitus (ringing or buzzing sounds) on the affected side
- Difficulty localising the direction of sounds
Diagnosis
The diagnosis of conductive hearing loss under H90.1 is established through several examinations:
- Otoscopy: Visual inspection of the ear canal and eardrum using an otoscope.
- Audiometry (pure tone audiogram): Measurement of hearing thresholds at various frequencies. Conductive hearing loss typically shows an air-bone gap, meaning bone conduction is significantly better than air conduction.
- Tympanometry: Assessment of eardrum mobility to evaluate middle ear function.
- Weber and Rinne tests: Tuning fork tests used to differentiate between conductive and sensorineural hearing loss.
Treatment
Treatment is tailored to the underlying cause:
- Earwax removal: Irrigation or manual removal of cerumen by an ENT specialist.
- Antibiotics or nasal drops: Used for bacterial middle ear infections or Eustachian tube dysfunction.
- Tympanostomy tubes (grommets): Small tubes inserted into the eardrum to drain fluid in cases of chronic glue ear, especially in children.
- Surgical intervention (tympanoplasty, stapedectomy): Surgical procedures to restore normal sound conduction in cases of eardrum perforation or otosclerosis.
- Hearing aids: For persistent hearing loss, conventional hearing aids or bone-anchored hearing systems (e.g., BAHA) may be recommended.
Distinction from Related ICD-10 Codes
ICD-10 Chapter H90 differentiates between several forms of hearing loss:
- H90.0: Bilateral conductive hearing loss
- H90.1: Unilateral conductive hearing loss with normal hearing on the unaffected side
- H90.2: Conductive hearing loss, unspecified
- H90.3–H90.5: Sensorineural hearing loss
- H90.6–H90.8: Mixed conductive and sensorineural hearing loss
References
- World Health Organization (WHO): International Classification of Diseases, 10th Revision (ICD-10). H90 – Conductive and sensorineural hearing loss. Geneva, 2019.
- Lalwani, A. K.: Current Diagnosis and Treatment in Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery. 3rd edition. McGraw-Hill Medical, New York 2012.
- Dhingra, P. L. & Dhingra, S.: Diseases of Ear, Nose and Throat. 6th edition. Elsevier India, New Delhi 2014.
Building Blocks for a Healthy Life
As an integrated manufacturer, we develop & produce evidence-based, patented, and non-patented formulations. We work exclusively with plant and natural extracts according to the strictest purity & quality standards.
The combination of science & modern technology with the laws of nature creates solutions consistently tailored to humans – for the highest good: health.
Skip product gallery
Subscription available
Floral
For Healthy Oral Flora & Dental Care
Formulated lozenges with Dentalac®, lactic acid bacteria, and Lactoferrin CLN®30 lozenges
Regular price:
22,90 €
Discount
Subscription available
Lactoferrin 60 Capsules
For your universal protection
As one of the most valuable proteins in the body, lactoferrin is a natural component of the immune system.
60 Capsules
Sale price:
50,00 €
Regular price:
59,90 €
Subscription available
Multivitamin Mineral Complex
Daily basic supply: the complete spectrum of micronutrients
Natural multivitamin complex for the immune system, energy, and central body functions
30 Capsules
Regular price:
29,90 €
Subscription available
Natural Iron
For your iron balance
Specially formulated for your iron balance with plant-based curry leaf iron, Lactoferrin CLN®, and natural Vitamin C from rose hips.
30 Capsules
Regular price:
35,90 €