ICD-10 Code C50.012 – Malignant neoplasm of nipple and areola, left female breast (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code C50.012 – Malignant neoplasm of nipple and areola, left female breast
What it is
This code identifies a malignant tumor arising in the nipple and areola of the left female breast. Use it when the documentation specifically states this site and laterality.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Commonly recorded findings include a palpable breast or nipple lesion, nipple distortion or discharge, skin change, or biopsy-confirmed cancer involving the nipple-areolar complex.
When to use this code
Use C50.012 when the provider documents primary malignancy of the left nipple and areola in a female patient. It is appropriate for confirmed cancer diagnoses, including pathology or oncology notes that clearly specify this anatomic site. Check documentation if the record only says breast cancer without location.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for benign nipple conditions, inflammatory breast disease, or unspecified breast malignancy. If the laterality, site, or primary versus secondary nature is unclear, check documentation.
Coding tip
Verify that the chart states left female breast and nipple-areola involvement before assigning C50.012.