ICD-10 Code C13.2 – Malignant neoplasm of posterior wall of hypopharynx (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code C13.2 – Malignant neoplasm of posterior wall of hypopharynx
What it is
C13.2 identifies a malignant tumor arising in the posterior wall of the hypopharynx. Use it when documentation specifies this exact anatomic site and confirms cancer.
Clinical signs
Clinical features may include persistent throat pain, difficulty swallowing, voice changes, or a neck mass. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use this code when the provider documents primary cancer of the posterior hypopharyngeal wall, including pathology or specialist assessment. It may also apply when imaging or endoscopic findings support the documented site and malignancy. Check documentation if the record only says hypopharyngeal cancer without a subsite.
Do not use for
Do not use C13.2 for benign lesions, dysplasia, or tumors in other hypopharyngeal subsites. If the site is unspecified or unclear, check documentation.
Coding tip
Verify the exact hypopharyngeal subsite before assigning C13.2, because site specificity drives correct coding.