ICD-10 Code C44.0 – Other and unspecified malignant neoplasm of skin of lip (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code C44.0 – Other and unspecified malignant neoplasm of skin of lip
What it is
This code identifies a malignant skin cancer on the lip when the record does not specify the exact histology or the site is documented as skin of the lip. Use it for lip lesions arising from the skin, not the oral mucosa.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Typical findings may include a persistent lip lesion, nonhealing ulcer, crusting, bleeding, or a visible mass suspicious for skin cancer.
When to use this code
Use C44.0 when the provider documents a malignant neoplasm of the skin of the lip and does not name a more specific skin cancer type. It also fits cases labeled “other” or “unspecified” malignant skin neoplasm of the lip. Check documentation if the lesion is described only as oral, vermilion, or mucosal.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for benign lip lesions, premalignant changes, or cancers of the oral cavity. If the record specifies a different lip subsite or a more specific malignancy, code that diagnosis instead.
Coding tip
Verify whether the provider means skin of the lip versus mucosa, because that distinction determines the correct code.