H90.5
Unspecified sensorineural hearing loss
Clinical Classification Guidelines
Inclusion Terms
- Central hearing loss NOS
- Congenital deafness NOS
- Neural hearing loss NOS
- Perceptive hearing loss NOS
- Sensorineural deafness NOS
- Sensory hearing loss NOS
Excludes Type 1
- abnormal auditory perception (H93.2-)
- psychogenic deafness (F44.6)
Medical Intelligence & Overview
Unspecified sensorineural hearing loss, classified under ICD-10 code H90.5, is a type of hearing impairment that affects the inner ear or the nerve pathways from the ear to the brain. This condition is characterized by a reduced ability to hear, which can impact one or both ears. Often called perceptive or neural hearing loss, it is a form of sensorineural impairment that may be caused by a variety of factors, but when the specific cause is not identified or categorized, it falls under the 'unspecified' designation.
Causes & Symptoms
Clinical Causes: Genetic factors that influence inner ear development Age-related degeneration of the inner ear structures (presbycusis) Exposure to loud noises over extended periods Ototoxic medications that damage the inner ear or auditory nerve Infections affecting the inner ear, such as meningitis or mumps Trauma to the head that damages sensory hair cells or auditory nerve Certain neurological conditions impacting the auditory pathway Congenital conditions present at birth Metabolic or vascular disorders affecting inner ear health Unknown reasons when no specific cause is identified
Key Symptoms: Gradual or sudden hearing loss in one or both ears Difficulty understanding speech, especially in noisy environments Ringing or buzzing sounds in the ears (tinnitus) Difficulty perceiving higher-pitched sounds Feeling of fullness or pressure in the ears Sensitivity to loud sounds or discomfort at certain volumes Balance issues or dizziness (occasionally related) Inaudibility of soft sounds and speech
Diagnostic & Treatment
Diagnosis Path: Diagnosing unspecified sensorineural hearing loss involves a series of hearing tests conducted by an audiologist. Common assessments include:
Treatment Protocols: While some causes of sensorineural hearing loss may be treatable or manageable, the primary goals are to improve hearing ability and communication, often through the following options:
Clinical Advice & FAQs
Billing Guidance
Is H90.5 a billable ICD-10 code?
Yes, H90.5 is a specific, billable code that can be used to indicate a diagnosis for reimbursement purposes.
Documentation
How do I report H90.5?
Clinical documentation must specify the nature of Unspecified sensorineural hearing loss and any associated comorbidities for accurate reporting.
Cite this Clinical Reference