ICD-10 Code C16 – Malignant neoplasm of stomach (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code C16 – Malignant neoplasm of stomach
What it is
C16 identifies a malignant neoplasm arising in the stomach. Use it for documented stomach cancer when the record does not specify a more exact gastric site or histology.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Commonly recorded findings include weight loss, abdominal pain, early satiety, nausea, vomiting, or anemia, but you should code only what is confirmed.
When to use this code
Use C16 when the provider documents primary gastric cancer, including stomach carcinoma or gastric malignancy. It also fits cases where the exact stomach subsite is not stated. If the note identifies a specific gastric location, code that more precise option instead.
Do not use for
Do not use C16 for benign gastric tumors, polyps, or metastatic disease to the stomach from another primary site. Check documentation if the record describes esophageal, duodenal, or gastroesophageal junction cancer.
Coding tip
Look for the exact anatomic site and whether the malignancy is primary or secondary before assigning C16.