ICD-10 Code C03.0 – Malignant neoplasm of upper gum (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code C03.0 – Malignant neoplasm of upper gum
What it is
C03.0 identifies a malignant tumor arising in the upper gum, or maxillary gingiva. Use it when the provider documents cancer of the upper gum specifically, rather than a broader oral cavity site.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Commonly recorded findings may include a persistent gingival mass, ulceration, bleeding, pain, or loosening of adjacent teeth, but you should code only what is documented.
When to use this code
Use C03.0 when the record clearly states malignant neoplasm of the upper gum, maxillary gingiva, or an equivalent term. It also fits when pathology, imaging, or operative notes confirm the site as the upper gum. If the site is described more generally, check documentation before assigning this code.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for benign gingival lesions, inflammatory gum disease, or malignancies documented in another oral cavity site. If the documentation says “gum cancer” without upper gum location, check documentation.
Coding tip
Capture the exact anatomic site from pathology or the final provider diagnosis before coding.