ICD-10 Code H71.92 – Unspecified cholesteatoma, left ear (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H71.92 – Unspecified cholesteatoma, left ear
What it is
This code identifies a cholesteatoma in the left ear when the type is not further specified. It refers to an abnormal growth of skin-like tissue in the middle ear or mastoid area.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Common findings may include chronic ear drainage, hearing loss, or a history of recurrent ear disease, but you should code only what is documented.
When to use this code
Use H71.92 when the record clearly states cholesteatoma of the left ear and does not identify a more specific type. This is appropriate for outpatient, inpatient, or specialist notes when laterality is documented but detail is limited. Check documentation if the site or type is unclear.
Do not use for
Do not use this code if the cholesteatoma is documented as a specific type or in a different ear. Do not assign it when the chart only mentions ear infection, perforation, or hearing loss without cholesteatoma.
Coding tip
Confirm laterality and whether the provider documented a more specific cholesteatoma before selecting the unspecified code.