ICD-10 Code C44.20 – Unspecified malignant neoplasm of skin of ear and external auricular canal (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code C44.20 – Unspecified malignant neoplasm of skin of ear and external auricular canal
What it is
This code identifies a malignant skin tumor on the ear or external ear canal when the provider does not document a more specific type or site. Use it for skin cancer of that area when details are limited.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Typical findings may include a persistent, nonhealing lesion, ulceration, crusting, bleeding, or a visible mass on the ear or in the external auricular canal.
When to use this code
Use this code when the record states a malignant neoplasm of the skin of the ear or external auricular canal but does not specify the histology or exact subsite. It is appropriate when the diagnosis is confirmed and no more specific ICD-10-CM code is supported. Check documentation if the lesion is described as uncertain, benign, or noncutaneous.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for benign skin lesions, premalignant changes, or cancers arising from non-skin structures of the ear. If the chart specifies a different skin site or a more specific malignant diagnosis, code that instead.
Coding tip
Verify that the provider documents skin origin and ear location before assigning C44.20.