ICD-10 Code C13.9 – Malignant neoplasm of hypopharynx, unspecified (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code C13.9 – Malignant neoplasm of hypopharynx, unspecified
What it is
C13.9 identifies a malignant tumor in the hypopharynx when the exact subsite is not documented. Use it when the record confirms hypopharyngeal cancer but does not specify a more precise location.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Commonly recorded findings may include dysphagia, odynophagia, throat pain, hoarseness, or a neck mass, but you should code only what is documented.
When to use this code
Use C13.9 when the provider diagnoses primary malignant neoplasm of the hypopharynx and does not name a subsite such as pyriform sinus or postcricoid area. It also fits when pathology or imaging confirms hypopharyngeal malignancy, but the chart remains nonspecific. Check documentation if laterality or exact site is clarified.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for benign lesions, dysplasia, or cancers arising outside the hypopharynx. If the note specifies another head and neck site, choose the documented site instead.
Coding tip
Query for the exact hypopharyngeal subsite before defaulting to unspecified.