ICD-10 Code C08 – Malignant neoplasm of other and unspecified major salivary glands (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code C08 – Malignant neoplasm of other and unspecified major salivary glands
What it is
C08 identifies a malignant tumor arising in a major salivary gland when the specific gland is not otherwise named or is classified as other major salivary gland sites. Use it for documented primary cancer of these glands.
Clinical signs
Clinical features may include a painless salivary gland mass, swelling, facial nerve symptoms, or difficulty chewing or swallowing. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use C08 when the provider documents a primary malignant neoplasm of a major salivary gland and does not specify a more precise site. It also fits cases recorded as “other” or “unspecified” major salivary gland cancer. Check documentation if the record names a particular gland or metastatic disease.
Do not use for
Do not use C08 for benign salivary gland tumors, inflammatory gland disorders, or cancers that are clearly metastatic to the salivary glands. If the primary site is specified elsewhere, code that site instead.
Coding tip
Confirm whether the note identifies a specific major salivary gland before defaulting to C08.