ICD-10 Code C43.70 – Malignant melanoma of unspecified lower limb, including hip (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code C43.70 – Malignant melanoma of unspecified lower limb, including hip
What it is
C43.70 identifies a malignant melanoma located on the lower limb, including the hip, when the exact side is not documented. Use this code for a primary skin cancer diagnosis involving that anatomic region.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Melanoma is typically described as an irregular pigmented lesion that may change in size, shape, color, or border, and may bleed, itch, or ulcerate.
When to use this code
Use this code when the record states malignant melanoma of the lower limb or hip but does not specify right or left. It also fits pathology-confirmed melanoma documented at that site without laterality. If the provider documents a more specific site or side, code that information instead.
Do not use for
Do not use C43.70 for benign nevi, dysplastic nevi, or nonmelanoma skin cancers. Do not use it when the lesion is documented on a different body site or when laterality is clearly specified.
Coding tip
Check the pathology or operative note for exact site and laterality before assigning this unspecified code.