ICD-10 Code C13 – Malignant neoplasm of hypopharynx (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code C13 – Malignant neoplasm of hypopharynx
What it is
C13 identifies a malignant tumor arising in the hypopharynx, the lower part of the throat behind the larynx. Use this code when documentation states primary cancer of the hypopharynx.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Commonly documented findings include persistent sore throat, dysphagia, hoarseness, neck mass, or unexplained weight loss when linked to hypopharyngeal cancer.
When to use this code
Use C13 when the provider documents a primary malignant neoplasm of the hypopharynx, including subsites within that region if no more specific code is given. Code it from pathology, oncology, or specialty notes that clearly identify the site. If the record only says throat cancer, check documentation.
Do not use for
Do not use C13 for benign hypopharyngeal lesions, dysplasia, or cancers originating in the larynx, oropharynx, or esophagus. If the primary site is not confirmed, check documentation before assigning this code.
Coding tip
Confirm the documented primary site and avoid coding based on symptoms alone.