ICD-10 Code C77.0 – Secondary and unspecified malignant neoplasm of lymph nodes of head, face and neck (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code C77.0 – Secondary and unspecified malignant neoplasm of lymph nodes of head, face and neck
What it is
This code identifies metastatic cancer found in the lymph nodes of the head, face, or neck. It is used when the lymph node disease is secondary, meaning it spread from a primary cancer elsewhere.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Common findings may include enlarged, firm, or fixed cervical lymph nodes, sometimes with a known primary malignancy elsewhere.
When to use this code
Use this code when the record clearly states metastatic or secondary malignant involvement of lymph nodes in the head, face, or neck. It also applies when the site is documented but the primary cancer is not further specified in the note. You should code the primary malignancy separately when documented.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for benign lymph node enlargement, infection, or lymphoma. Check documentation if the note describes a primary lymph node cancer rather than metastatic disease.
Coding tip
Confirm the metastatic nature and nodal location in the provider’s documentation before assigning C77.0.