ICD-10 Code C13.8 – Malignant neoplasm of overlapping sites of hypopharynx (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code C13.8 – Malignant neoplasm of overlapping sites of hypopharynx
What it is
This code identifies a malignant tumor of the hypopharynx that involves overlapping subsites, so the exact point of origin cannot be assigned to one specific area. Use it when the cancer spans more than one hypopharyngeal site.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Commonly reported findings include persistent sore throat, dysphagia, odynophagia, hoarseness, neck mass, or unexplained weight loss, but the diagnosis must be confirmed by clinical evaluation and pathology.
When to use this code
Use C13.8 when the record states a malignant neoplasm of overlapping sites of the hypopharynx or describes a lesion crossing hypopharyngeal subsites. It is appropriate when the provider cannot assign the tumor to a single subsite. Check documentation for the exact anatomic extent and laterality is not applicable.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for benign tumors, dysplasia, or cancers arising in a different head and neck site. If the documentation identifies one specific hypopharyngeal subsite, code that site instead; if unclear, check documentation.
Coding tip
Code the most specific hypopharyngeal site documented, and use C13.8 only when overlapping involvement is explicitly stated.