ICD-10 Code H60.42 – Cholesteatoma of left external ear (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H60.42 – Cholesteatoma of left external ear
What it is
H60.42 identifies cholesteatoma affecting the left external ear. It refers to an abnormal keratinizing lesion in the external ear canal, not the middle ear.
Clinical signs
Findings may include a persistent ear canal mass, debris accumulation, and local irritation or drainage. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use H60.42 when the provider documents cholesteatoma in the left external ear or left external auditory canal. Code it from the diagnosis statement, operative note, or specialist assessment. If the record only says “ear cholesteatoma,” check documentation for the site.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for cholesteatoma of the middle ear or mastoid, or for nonspecific external ear infections. Check documentation if the laterality or anatomic site is unclear.
Coding tip
Confirm both laterality and the external-ear location before assigning H60.42.