ICD-10 Code C44.292 – Other specified malignant neoplasm of skin of right ear and external auricular canal (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code C44.292 – Other specified malignant neoplasm of skin of right ear and external auricular canal
What it is
This code identifies a malignant skin tumor on the right ear or external auricular canal that is not otherwise classified in a more specific skin cancer code. Use it when the documentation names a malignant neoplasm of skin at this site but does not specify a different skin cancer type.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Commonly, the lesion is described as a suspicious, nonhealing, or enlarging skin growth on the right ear or ear canal, with possible ulceration, bleeding, or crusting.
When to use this code
Use this code when the provider documents a malignant neoplasm of skin involving the right ear or external auricular canal and the record supports the “other specified” category. It is appropriate when the site is clearly right-sided and the diagnosis is not better captured by a more specific skin cancer code. Check documentation if the pathology or clinical note is incomplete.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for benign skin lesions, unspecified skin cancer sites, or malignant neoplasms that are documented as a different histology with a more specific code. Do not assign it if the lesion is not on the right ear or external auricular canal.
Coding tip
Verify both the anatomic site and the exact wording of the diagnosis before coding C44.292.