ICD-10 Code C79.49 – Secondary malignant neoplasm of other parts of nervous system (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code C79.49 – Secondary malignant neoplasm of other parts of nervous system
What it is
This code identifies metastatic cancer involving other parts of the nervous system that are not named elsewhere in the code set. Use it when documentation states a secondary malignant neoplasm in a specific nervous system site outside the more specific categories.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Findings may reflect neurologic involvement such as pain, weakness, sensory change, or neurologic deficits, but the record must support metastatic disease in the listed nervous system site.
When to use this code
Use C79.49 when the provider documents metastatic cancer to other parts of the nervous system and does not name a more specific site. It is appropriate for secondary involvement confirmed by imaging, pathology, or clear clinical assessment. Code the primary malignancy separately when documented.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for primary nervous system tumors or for metastases to a more specific nervous system location with its own code. Check documentation if the site is unclear or if the lesion is not confirmed as secondary.
Coding tip
Match the exact metastatic site in the note first; if a more specific nervous system code applies, use that instead of C79.49.