ICD-10 Code for Bilateral Sensorineural Hearing Loss
The ICD-10 code for bilateral sensorineural hearing loss is H90.3.
Code Specification
- H90.3 specifically designates bilateral sensorineural hearing loss 1
- This code applies when hearing loss affects both ears and originates from abnormalities of the cochlea, auditory nerve, or higher aspects of central auditory perception 1
Clinical Context for Proper Coding
Bilateral sensorineural hearing loss is distinct from unilateral presentations and represents a different disease entity that warrants careful evaluation 2:
- Bilateral presentations are less common than unilateral cases 2
- The bilateral condition is more often associated with serious systemic conditions including toxic, autoimmune, neoplastic, and vascular etiologies 2
- Bilateral cases demonstrate higher morbidity and mortality rates (35% mortality) compared to unilateral presentations 2
Age-Related Considerations
When coding for elderly patients (age 50 and above), recognize that:
- Age-related hearing loss (presbycusis) presents as progressive bilateral sensorineural hearing loss 1
- Bilateral presentation occurs in approximately 85.7% of age-related cases 3
- The severity increases with advancing age 3
Critical Documentation Requirements
Ensure proper documentation includes:
- Confirmation of sensorineural (not conductive) hearing loss through audiometry showing air-bone gap absence 1
- Bilateral involvement verified by testing both ears 1
- Degree of hearing loss (mild, moderate, severe, profound) for complete coding 3
- Timing of onset (sudden versus progressive) as this affects underlying etiology evaluation 1, 2
Common Coding Pitfalls to Avoid
- Do not use H90.3 for unilateral sensorineural hearing loss - this requires different codes (H90.4 for unspecified ear, H90.41 for right ear, H90.42 for left ear) 1
- Do not confuse with conductive hearing loss (H90.0-H90.2 series) - verify through Weber and Rinne testing or audiometry 1
- Document whether sudden or progressive - sudden bilateral sensorineural hearing loss may require additional evaluation codes for underlying systemic conditions 1, 2