ICD-10 Code C40.12 – Malignant neoplasm of short bones of left upper limb (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code C40.12 – Malignant neoplasm of short bones of left upper limb
What it is
C40.12 identifies a malignant tumor arising in the short bones of the left upper limb, such as the wrist or hand bones. Use it when the documentation specifies cancer in these bones on the left side.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Commonly, records may note localized bone pain, swelling, tenderness, or a pathologic fracture, but you should code only when the malignancy is clearly documented.
When to use this code
Use C40.12 when the provider documents a primary malignant neoplasm of a short bone in the left upper limb. It is appropriate for confirmed site-specific bone cancer involving the left wrist or hand bones. Check documentation if the record only says “bone cancer” without laterality or site.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for benign bone tumors, metastatic disease to bone, or malignancies in long bones or the right upper limb. Check documentation when the exact bone site is unclear.
Coding tip
Verify both laterality and anatomic site before assigning C40.12.