ICD-10 Code C25.2 – Malignant neoplasm of tail of pancreas (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code C25.2 – Malignant neoplasm of tail of pancreas
What it is
C25.2 identifies a malignant tumor arising in the tail of the pancreas. Use it when the record clearly states cancer in the pancreatic tail, including primary pancreatic malignancy.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Patients may present with nonspecific abdominal pain, weight loss, jaundice less often than with head lesions, or an imaging-confirmed mass in the pancreatic tail.
When to use this code
Assign this code when the provider documents a malignant neoplasm specifically located in the tail of the pancreas. It is also appropriate when imaging, pathology, or operative notes confirm a primary pancreatic tail cancer and the location is explicit.
Do not use for
Do not use C25.2 for benign pancreatic lesions, metastatic disease to the pancreas, or cancers in the head, body, or other parts of the pancreas. Check documentation if the site is not clearly stated.
Coding tip
Capture the exact pancreatic subsite from the final diagnosis or pathology report before you code.