H91.03
Ototoxic hearing loss, bilateral
Clinical Classification Guidelines
Medical Intelligence & Overview
Bilateral ototoxic hearing loss is a type of hearing impairment that affects both ears and is caused by medications or substances that damage the auditory system. This condition can develop gradually or suddenly and can significantly impact communication, social interactions, and overall quality of life. Recognizing the underlying causes, symptoms, and available options for diagnosis and management can help affected individuals seek appropriate medical attention and support.
Causes & Symptoms
Clinical Causes: Use of certain medications such as aminoglycoside antibiotics (e.g., gentamicin, amikacin) Chemotherapy drugs like cisplatin and carboplatin High doses of aspirin or other salicylates Loop diuretics such as furosemide and bumetanide Exposure to environmental toxins or chemicals that may affect auditory function Prolonged or high-dose exposure to ototoxic agents due to underlying health conditions
Key Symptoms: Gradual reduction in hearing ability in both ears Muffled or distorted hearing perception Difficulty understanding speech, especially in noisy environments Ringing or buzzing sounds (tinnitus) Balance issues or dizziness in some cases
Diagnostic & Treatment
Diagnosis Path: A detailed medical history focusing on medication use and exposure to ototoxic substances Pure-tone audiometry to assess hearing thresholds across different frequencies Speech audiometry to evaluate understanding of speech signals Tympanometry to examine middle ear function Additional tests such as otoacoustic emissions or auditory brainstem response (ABR) testing if necessary
Treatment Protocols: Discontinuation or substitution of the causative medication whenever possible Use of hearing aids to amplify sound and improve communication Assistive listening devices and communication strategies Regular monitoring of hearing ability to detect changes early Counseling and support services to address communication challenges and emotional impact Research into potential protective agents that could reduce ototoxic effects is ongoing
Clinical Advice & FAQs
Billing Guidance
Is H91.03 a billable ICD-10 code?
Yes, H91.03 is a specific, billable code that can be used to indicate a diagnosis for reimbursement purposes.
Documentation
How do I report H91.03?
Clinical documentation must specify the nature of Ototoxic hearing loss, bilateral and any associated comorbidities for accurate reporting.
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