ICD-10 Code C44.5 – Other and unspecified malignant neoplasm of skin of trunk (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code C44.5 – Other and unspecified malignant neoplasm of skin of trunk
What it is
C44.5 identifies a malignant skin cancer located on the trunk, including the chest, abdomen, back, and related torso skin. Use it when the record does not specify a more exact skin cancer type for that area.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Typical findings may include a suspicious skin lesion on the trunk with abnormal growth, ulceration, bleeding, or nonhealing change, but the exact appearance depends on the documented diagnosis.
When to use this code
Use this code when the provider documents a malignant neoplasm of skin on the trunk and does not identify the specific histology or a more detailed site. It also fits “other” or “unspecified” skin cancer of the trunk when no further clarification is available. If the note names a precise subtype or another body site, code that instead.
Do not use for
Do not use C44.5 for benign skin lesions, premalignant changes, or malignant neoplasms on the face, scalp, limbs, or genital skin. Check documentation if the cancer is a different primary site or a metastasis to skin.
Coding tip
Query for the exact skin cancer type and location before assigning C44.5, because more specific documentation may support a different code.