ICD-10 Code C78.8 – Secondary malignant neoplasm of other and unspecified digestive organs (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code C78.8 – Secondary malignant neoplasm of other and unspecified digestive organs
What it is
C78.8 identifies metastatic cancer that has spread to digestive organs not named by a more specific secondary site code. Use it when the record shows secondary malignant involvement of an unspecified or other digestive organ.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Findings usually reflect metastatic disease in the digestive tract or associated organs, confirmed by imaging, pathology, or operative note.
When to use this code
Use C78.8 when the provider documents secondary malignant neoplasm involving a digestive organ that is not separately listed in the code set. It also fits when the site is described as other or unspecified digestive organ and no more specific code applies. Code the primary malignancy separately when documented.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for primary cancers of digestive organs or for metastases to clearly specified sites with a more precise code. Check documentation if the record only states “digestive system” without confirming a secondary site.
Coding tip
Query for the exact metastatic site whenever the note is vague, because a more specific secondary site code may be available.