ICD-10 Codes for Deafness
The ICD-10 coding for deafness depends on the specific type and laterality of hearing loss, but the primary codes include H90.3-H90.5 for sensorineural hearing loss, H90.0-H90.2 for conductive hearing loss, and H91.90 for unspecified hearing loss.
Primary ICD-10 Codes by Type of Hearing Loss
Sensorineural Hearing Loss (SNHL)
- H90.3: Sensorineural hearing loss, bilateral 1
- H90.4: Sensorineural hearing loss, unilateral with unrestricted hearing on the contralateral side 1
- H90.5: Unspecified sensorineural hearing loss 1
SNHL results from abnormal function of the cochlea, auditory nerve, or higher aspects of central auditory perception or processing 1.
Conductive Hearing Loss (CHL)
- H90.0: Conductive hearing loss, bilateral 1
- H90.1: Conductive hearing loss, unilateral with unrestricted hearing on the contralateral side 1
- H90.2: Unspecified conductive hearing loss 1
CHL results from problems conducting sound waves through the outer ear, tympanic membrane, or middle ear 1.
Mixed Hearing Loss
- H90.6: Mixed conductive and sensorineural hearing loss, bilateral 1
- H90.7: Mixed conductive and sensorineural hearing loss, unilateral with unrestricted hearing on the contralateral side 1
- H90.8: Mixed conductive and sensorineural hearing loss, unspecified 1
Mixed hearing loss involves both SNHL and CHL occurring in the same ear 1.
Sudden Hearing Loss Codes
- H91.2: Sudden idiopathic hearing loss 1
This code applies when there is a rapid-onset hearing impairment occurring within a 72-hour window, typically defined as a decrease of ≥30 decibels affecting at least 3 consecutive frequencies 1.
Additional Relevant Codes
- H91.90: Unspecified hearing loss 1
- H93.25: Central auditory processing disorder (CAPD) 2
- H91.3: Deaf nonspeaking, not elsewhere classified 1
Coding Considerations
Degree of hearing loss should be documented when coding, as severity ranges from slight (16-25 dB) to profound (≥91 dB) 1.
Laterality specification is critical—bilateral versus unilateral hearing loss requires different codes 1.
Age-related hearing loss (presbycusis) in patients ≥50 years old is typically coded as sensorineural hearing loss with appropriate laterality codes 1.
Genetic or syndromic deafness may require additional codes to specify the underlying etiology when identified through genetic testing 1.
Common Pitfalls
Do not use H91.90 (unspecified hearing loss) when the type of hearing loss has been determined through audiometry or physical examination 1. Tuning fork testing and audiometry enable clinicians to distinguish CHL from SNHL, allowing for accurate code selection 1.
Avoid coding sudden hearing loss without confirming sensorineural versus conductive etiology through proper evaluation 1.