ICD-10 Code C44.02 – Squamous cell carcinoma of skin of lip (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code C44.02 – Squamous cell carcinoma of skin of lip
What it is
C44.02 identifies a malignant squamous cell carcinoma arising in the skin of the lip. Use it when the record specifies a skin lesion on the lip, not a mucosal or oral cavity cancer.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include a persistent scaly or crusted lip lesion, ulceration, bleeding, or a nonhealing sore. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation for the exact site and pathology confirmation.
When to use this code
Use this code when the provider documents squamous cell carcinoma of the skin of the lip, including biopsy-confirmed cases. It also fits follow-up visits for a known lip skin cancer when the diagnosis remains active. Check documentation if the note only says “lip cancer” or does not specify skin.
Do not use for
Do not use C44.02 for squamous cell carcinoma of the oral mucosa, vermilion border not specified as skin, or other lip malignancies. Check documentation if the site is unclear.
Coding tip
Verify that the lesion is on the skin of the lip and not the oral cavity before assigning C44.02.