ICD-10 Code C18.0 – Malignant neoplasm of cecum (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code C18.0 – Malignant neoplasm of cecum
What it is
C18.0 identifies a malignant tumor arising in the cecum, the first part of the large intestine. Use it when documentation specifies primary cancer of the cecum.
Clinical signs
Clinical features may include abdominal pain, bowel habit changes, anemia, weight loss, or occult gastrointestinal bleeding. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use C18.0 when the provider documents cecal cancer, cecal adenocarcinoma, or another malignant neoplasm limited to the cecum. Assign it for confirmed primary malignancy of this site, even if the patient is being seen for staging, follow-up, or preoperative evaluation.
Do not use for
Do not use C18.0 for benign cecal lesions, polyps, or inflammatory bowel disease. If the record does not clearly state the cecum as the primary site, check documentation.
Coding tip
Verify the exact anatomic site in the operative note, pathology report, or assessment before assigning C18.0.