ICD-10 Code C14.0 – Malignant neoplasm of pharynx, unspecified (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code C14.0 – Malignant neoplasm of pharynx, unspecified
What it is
C14.0 identifies a malignant tumor arising in the pharynx when the exact subsite is not documented. Use it when the record confirms pharyngeal cancer but does not specify the nasopharynx, oropharynx, or hypopharynx.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Commonly reported findings include persistent sore throat, dysphagia, neck mass, voice changes, or unexplained weight loss, but the exact presentation depends on tumor location and extent.
When to use this code
Use C14.0 when the provider documents a primary malignant neoplasm of the pharynx and no more specific site is available. It also fits when pathology, imaging, or consultation notes confirm pharyngeal cancer but leave the subsite unspecified. If later documentation identifies a precise pharyngeal site, code that more specific diagnosis instead.
Do not use for
Do not use C14.0 if the cancer is documented in the nasopharynx, oropharynx, or hypopharynx, because those require different codes. Check documentation if the lesion is metastatic, nonmalignant, or the primary site is unclear.
Coding tip
Query the provider when the chart says “pharyngeal cancer” without a subsite, because specificity can change the code.