ICD-10 Code C72.40 – Malignant neoplasm of unspecified acoustic nerve (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code C72.40 – Malignant neoplasm of unspecified acoustic nerve
What it is
C72.40 identifies a malignant tumor involving the acoustic nerve when the specific side is not documented. Use it for a cancer diagnosis affecting this cranial nerve area, not for benign nerve tumors.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Commonly recorded findings may include hearing loss, tinnitus, balance problems, or other cranial nerve-related symptoms, but the chart should confirm the malignant diagnosis.
When to use this code
Use C72.40 when the provider documents a malignant neoplasm of the acoustic nerve and does not specify right or left. It also fits when pathology, imaging, or operative notes support malignancy in this location. Check documentation if the site is described differently.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for benign acoustic nerve tumors, vestibular schwannoma, or nonspecific hearing disorders. If the record lacks confirmation of malignancy, check documentation before assigning C72.40.
Coding tip
Always verify both malignancy and laterality; if side is documented, use the more specific code.