ICD-10 Code D38 – Neoplasm of uncertain behavior of middle ear and respiratory and intrathoracic organs (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code D38 – Neoplasm of uncertain behavior of middle ear and respiratory and intrathoracic organs
What it is
D38 identifies a neoplasm in the middle ear, respiratory system, or intrathoracic organs whose behavior is uncertain. Use it when pathology or documentation does not clearly state benign or malignant.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Findings may include a mass, abnormal imaging, or symptoms related to the involved site, but the key point is uncertain biologic behavior.
When to use this code
Use D38 when the provider documents a neoplasm of uncertain behavior in one of these anatomic areas and no more specific code is available. It is appropriate when pathology, biopsy, or operative notes describe uncertain or borderline behavior. If the record later confirms benign or malignant behavior, code that confirmed diagnosis instead.
Do not use for
Do not use D38 for clearly benign or malignant tumors, or when the site is outside the middle ear, respiratory, or intrathoracic organs. Check documentation if the behavior is not stated.
Coding tip
Verify both the anatomic site and the documented behavior before assigning D38.