ICD-10 Code C44.62 – Squamous cell carcinoma of skin of upper limb, including shoulder (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code C44.62 – Squamous cell carcinoma of skin of upper limb, including shoulder
What it is
C44.62 identifies squamous cell carcinoma arising in the skin of the upper limb, including the shoulder. Use it for a malignant skin tumor in this anatomic site when documentation is specific.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include a nonhealing, enlarging, scaly, crusted, or ulcerated skin lesion. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation, pathology, and the recorded site.
When to use this code
Use C44.62 when the provider documents squamous cell carcinoma of the skin on the arm, forearm, hand, or shoulder. It also fits when pathology confirms the diagnosis and the site is clearly stated.
If the record says only “skin cancer” or does not identify the upper limb, check documentation before assigning this code. Code the most specific site available in the chart.
Do not use for
Do not use C44.62 for basal cell carcinoma, melanoma, or squamous cell carcinoma in a different body site. Do not assign it when the documentation is nonspecific; check documentation.
Coding tip
Verify both the histology and the exact anatomic location before coding, because site specificity drives correct code selection.