ICD-10 Code C44.42 – Squamous cell carcinoma of skin of scalp and neck (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code C44.42 – Squamous cell carcinoma of skin of scalp and neck
What it is
This code identifies a malignant squamous cell cancer arising from the skin of the scalp or neck. Use it when the record specifies this anatomic site and confirms a skin primary.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include a persistent scaly or crusted lesion, a nonhealing ulcer, or a firm raised nodule on the scalp or neck. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use C44.42 when the provider documents squamous cell carcinoma of the skin on the scalp or neck, including pathology-confirmed cases. It is appropriate for current active disease and for encounters focused on evaluation, excision, or follow-up of that documented skin cancer.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for squamous cell carcinoma of non-skin sites or for unspecified skin locations. Check documentation if the lesion is described only as a skin cancer without a confirmed squamous cell type.
Coding tip
Code the documented site exactly; if the chart says scalp or neck skin, choose C44.42 rather than a broader unspecified skin cancer code.