ICD-10 Code C43.4 – Malignant melanoma of scalp and neck (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code C43.4 – Malignant melanoma of scalp and neck
What it is
C43.4 identifies a malignant melanoma arising on the scalp or neck. Use it when the documentation specifies a primary melanoma in either of these anatomic sites.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include a changing pigmented lesion, asymmetry, irregular borders, color variation, or ulceration. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation and pathology when available.
When to use this code
Use C43.4 when the provider documents malignant melanoma of the scalp or neck, including biopsy-confirmed primary disease. Apply it to the stated site even if the lesion is described as suspicious or changing, once melanoma is confirmed.
If the record only says “melanoma” without a site, check documentation before coding. Make sure the lesion is not described as metastatic disease or a different skin cancer.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for benign nevi, dysplastic nevi, or non-melanoma skin cancers. Check documentation if the melanoma is metastatic, recurrent, or located at another skin site.
Coding tip
Verify the exact anatomic site in the pathology or provider note before assigning C43.4.