ICD-10 Code C43.20 – Malignant melanoma of unspecified ear and external auricular canal (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code C43.20 – Malignant melanoma of unspecified ear and external auricular canal
What it is
This code identifies a malignant melanoma located on the ear or external auricular canal when the exact side or subsite is not documented. Use it for a primary skin cancer diagnosis involving melanocytes in this area.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Melanoma is often noted as a changing pigmented lesion, irregularly shaped or colored, with possible asymmetry, border irregularity, or bleeding.
When to use this code
Use C43.20 when the provider documents malignant melanoma of the ear or external auricular canal but does not specify left or right side. It is appropriate for confirmed primary melanoma in this location, including pathology-supported diagnoses. Check documentation if the lesion is described only as suspicious, atypical, or under evaluation.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for benign nevi, dysplastic lesions, or non-melanoma skin cancers. If the record identifies a specific ear side, use the more specific laterality code instead.
Coding tip
Verify whether the note names the external ear, auricle, or external auditory canal before assigning the unspecified code.