ICD-10 Code C39.0 – Malignant neoplasm of upper respiratory tract, part unspecified (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code C39.0 – Malignant neoplasm of upper respiratory tract, part unspecified
What it is
C39.0 identifies a malignant tumor in the upper respiratory tract when the exact site is not documented. Use it when the record confirms cancer in this region but does not specify the involved part.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Common findings may include a mass, persistent obstruction, bleeding, or hoarseness, but you should code only what is clinically documented and confirmed as malignant.
When to use this code
Use C39.0 when the provider documents a primary or malignant neoplasm of the upper respiratory tract and does not name a more specific anatomic site. It is appropriate for pathology, imaging, or operative reports that confirm malignancy without further localization.
If later documentation identifies a more specific site, update coding to the precise ICD-10 code. Check documentation when the term “upper respiratory tract” is used loosely or when the lesion may be metastatic rather than primary.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for benign tumors, dysplasia, or inflammatory lesions. If the cancer site is specified more precisely, code that site instead of the unspecified upper respiratory tract category.
Coding tip
Query the provider whenever the record says only “upper respiratory tract” so you can capture the most specific malignant site available.