From the Guidelines
The ICD-10 code for cerumen impaction is H61.2, which should be used for medical billing and documentation when a patient has excessive or impacted earwax that requires clinical intervention, as recommended by the clinical practice guideline update on earwax (cerumen impaction) published in 2017 1. When diagnosing cerumen impaction, clinicians should consider symptoms such as decreased hearing, fullness, tinnitus, and distortion/changes to hearing aid function, and examine the ear canal using a handheld speculum, an otoscope, or a binocular microscope. Key points to consider in the diagnosis and management of cerumen impaction include:
- Understanding that cerumen is normal and should be left alone if not causing symptoms or blocking the ear canal
- Avoiding overcleaning of the ears, as this can irritate the ear canal and increase the chances of cerumen impaction
- Seeking medical evaluation if symptoms of hearing loss, ear fullness, and ear pain are present
- Avoiding the use of ear candles, as they can cause serious damage to the ear canal and eardrum Treatment of cerumen impaction typically involves cerumen removal through irrigation, manual removal with specialized instruments, or ceruminolytic agents to soften the wax. It is essential to document the method of removal, any complications, and follow-up instructions provided to the patient. Proper coding ensures appropriate reimbursement and accurate medical records for this common condition. According to the guideline, clinicians should diagnose cerumen impaction when an accumulation of cerumen causes symptoms, prevents needed assessment of the ear, or both, and consider removal of cerumen in at-risk patients who cannot identify or express symptoms of cerumen impaction, such as elderly adults with dementia or young children with fevers or speech delay 1.
From the Research
Cerumen Impaction ICD
- The ICD (International Classification of Diseases) code for cerumen impaction is not explicitly mentioned in the provided study 2.
- However, the study discusses the management and treatment of cerumen impaction, highlighting its prevalence and importance in primary care settings.
- According to the study, cerumen impaction can be a harmless condition, but it can also be accompanied by more serious symptoms, emphasizing the need for proper diagnosis and treatment 2.
- The study provides guidance on the removal of cerumen, including the use of cerumenolytics, irrigation, and manual removal, but does not specify the ICD code for the condition.
- For accurate coding, it is recommended to consult the latest ICD manual or a reliable medical coding resource, as the study does not provide this information 2.