ICD-10 Code C43.60 – Malignant melanoma of unspecified upper limb, including shoulder (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code C43.60 – Malignant melanoma of unspecified upper limb, including shoulder
What it is
C43.60 identifies a malignant melanoma located on the upper limb, including the shoulder, when the exact site is not specified. Use it when the record confirms melanoma but does not name a more precise anatomic subsite.
Clinical signs
Melanoma often presents as a changing pigmented lesion, new growth, or an irregular mole with asymmetry, border variation, color change, or enlargement. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use this code when the provider documents malignant melanoma of the upper limb or shoulder and does not specify whether it is on the arm, forearm, wrist, hand, or shoulder. It also fits pathology or operative notes that confirm melanoma but leave the site broad. If later documentation gives a more exact location, code the specific site instead.
Do not use for
Do not use C43.60 for melanoma of a clearly documented specific upper-limb site, such as the hand or forearm. Do not use it for benign nevi, nonmelanoma skin cancers, or metastatic disease without documentation of a primary melanoma here.
Coding tip
Check the pathology and operative report first; if the site is only documented as “upper limb” or “shoulder,” this code is appropriate.