ICD-10 Code C15.3 – Malignant neoplasm of upper third of esophagus (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code C15.3 – Malignant neoplasm of upper third of esophagus
What it is
C15.3 identifies a malignant tumor located in the upper third of the esophagus. Use it when the documentation specifies this anatomic site and confirms primary esophageal cancer.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include progressive dysphagia, odynophagia, weight loss, or upper chest discomfort. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation and pathology or imaging when available.
When to use this code
Use C15.3 when the provider documents cancer of the upper third of the esophagus, including pathology, endoscopy, or imaging that localizes the primary tumor there. It is appropriate for confirmed malignant neoplasm, not merely suspected disease. If the site is described differently or the primary origin is unclear, check documentation.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for benign esophageal lesions, dysplasia, or cancers in other esophageal segments. Do not use it when the record only states “esophageal cancer” without a documented upper-third site.
Coding tip
Verify both malignancy and exact esophageal location before assigning C15.3.