ICD-10 Code C44 – Other and unspecified malignant neoplasm of skin (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code C44 – Other and unspecified malignant neoplasm of skin
What it is
C44 identifies a malignant skin cancer when the record does not specify a more exact site or type. Use it for non-melanoma skin malignancies documented as other or unspecified.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Skin cancer may present as a new or changing lesion, nonhealing sore, bleeding area, or abnormal growth, but you should code only what is documented.
When to use this code
Use C44 when the provider documents a malignant neoplasm of skin without naming a more specific ICD-10 option. It is appropriate for unspecified skin cancer diagnoses or when the note says “other” skin malignancy. If the site or histology is later clarified, update to the more specific code.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for benign skin lesions, carcinoma in situ, or melanoma. If documentation identifies a specific skin site or cancer type, check documentation for a more precise code.
Coding tip
Query for the exact skin site and histology whenever the record only says “skin cancer” or “malignant neoplasm of skin.”