ICD-10 Code H71.01 – Cholesteatoma of attic, right ear (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H71.01 – Cholesteatoma of attic, right ear
What it is
H71.01 identifies a cholesteatoma located in the attic, or epitympanic space, of the right ear. It is an abnormal growth of keratinizing skin tissue in the middle ear that can erode nearby structures.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include chronic ear drainage, hearing loss, and a retraction pocket or debris in the attic area on otoscopic exam. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use this code when the provider documents a cholesteatoma specifically in the attic of the right ear. It applies when laterality and site are both confirmed in the record. Check documentation if the note only says “cholesteatoma” without anatomic detail.
Do not use for
Do not use H71.01 for cholesteatoma of the left ear, unspecified ear, or cholesteatoma in another middle-ear site. Do not use it when the record describes a suspected lesion only.
Coding tip
Match the exact ear and location in the ENT note before assigning H71.01.