ICD-10 Code C72.1 – Malignant neoplasm of cauda equina (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code C72.1 – Malignant neoplasm of cauda equina
What it is
C72.1 identifies a malignant tumor arising in the cauda equina, the bundle of nerve roots at the lower end of the spinal cord. Use it when documentation specifies a cancer of this anatomic site.
Clinical signs
Clinical features may include low back pain, radicular pain, weakness, numbness, or bowel and bladder dysfunction. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use C72.1 when the provider documents a malignant neoplasm of the cauda equina, including primary cancer at that site. You may also use it when pathology, imaging, or operative notes clearly localize the malignancy to the cauda equina. If the record only says “spinal cord tumor,” check documentation for the exact location.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for benign tumors, metastatic disease to the cauda equina, or unspecified spinal neoplasms. Check documentation if the site is described only as lumbar spine, nerve root, or spinal canal.
Coding tip
Confirm the exact anatomic site in the report before assigning C72.1.