ICD-10 Code C05 – Malignant neoplasm of palate (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code C05 – Malignant neoplasm of palate
What it is
C05 identifies a malignant tumor arising in the palate, including the hard or soft palate. Use it when the record documents primary cancer of the palate.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Commonly recorded findings include a palatal mass, ulceration, pain, bleeding, or difficulty speaking or swallowing.
When to use this code
Use C05 when the provider states malignant neoplasm of the palate as the diagnosis, or when pathology confirms a primary cancer in that site. Code the documented palatal subsite if the record specifies hard or soft palate. If the lesion is metastatic, secondary, or uncertain, check documentation.
Do not use for
Do not use C05 for benign palatal lesions, dysplasia, or carcinoma in situ unless the record supports a malignant diagnosis. Do not assign it for cancer located in another oral site.
Coding tip
Verify whether the note specifies hard palate, soft palate, or overlapping sites, because subsite detail may affect code selection.