Cholesteatoma of attic, unspecified ear

This code represents a cholesteatoma located specifically in the attic (epitympanum) of the middle ear, without specifying laterality. A cholesteatoma is an abnormal, non-cancerous skin growth that can develop behind the eardrum, often due to chronic ear infections or eustachian tube dysfunction, and can erode surrounding bone.

Use this code when documentation clearly indicates a cholesteatoma confined to the attic region, and the laterality (left, right, or bilateral) is not specified. This is appropriate for initial diagnosis or follow-up when the exact ear affected is not yet determined or documented.

• Do not use this code if laterality is documented; instead, select a more specific code (H71.01, H71.02, H71.03).
• Ensure documentation specifies "attic" or "epitympanum" to differentiate from other cholesteatoma locations.
• Consider sequencing this code with codes for associated conditions like chronic otitis media if present.