ICD-10 Code C22.9 – Malignant neoplasm of liver, not specified as primary or secondary (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code C22.9 – Malignant neoplasm of liver, not specified as primary or secondary
What it is
This code identifies a malignant tumor in the liver when the record does not state whether it started in the liver or spread there from another site. Use it only when the documentation is nonspecific.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Patients may have imaging or biopsy evidence of a liver malignancy, but the primary source is not identified in the chart.
When to use this code
Use C22.9 when the provider documents liver cancer, hepatic malignancy, or malignant neoplasm of the liver without specifying primary versus secondary. It is also appropriate when the site is confirmed as liver but the origin remains unclear. Check documentation if laterality, primary site, or metastatic status is stated elsewhere.
Do not use for
Do not use this code if the record clearly identifies primary liver cancer or metastatic disease to the liver. Check documentation when the note specifies hepatocellular carcinoma, cholangiocarcinoma, or another exact diagnosis.
Coding tip
Assign the most specific liver cancer code supported by the record; if origin is uncertain, C22.9 is the fallback.