ICD-10 Code H71.12 – Cholesteatoma of tympanum, left ear (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H71.12 – Cholesteatoma of tympanum, left ear
What it is
H71.12 identifies a cholesteatoma located in the tympanum of the left ear. It is an abnormal collection of keratinizing squamous epithelium that can expand locally and damage nearby middle-ear structures.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Common findings include chronic ear discharge, conductive hearing loss, retraction pocket, or visible middle-ear mass on otoscopic exam, but the record should confirm left-sided tympanic involvement.
When to use this code
Use this code when the provider documents cholesteatoma specifically in the tympanum of the left ear. It may also apply when imaging, surgery, or operative notes identify a left tympanic cholesteatoma without a more specific site.
Code it only when the diagnosis is established, not for nonspecific otitis media or ear debris. If documentation says “cholesteatoma, left ear” but does not specify the tympanum, check documentation for the exact anatomic site.
Do not use for
Do not use H71.12 for cholesteatoma of the right ear, bilateral disease, or cholesteatoma in another middle-ear site. Do not use it for suspected cholesteatoma without confirmation.
Coding tip
Always match the ear laterality and the documented anatomic location before assigning H71.12.