ICD-10 Code C44.202 – Unspecified malignant neoplasm of skin of right ear and external auricular canal (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code C44.202 – Unspecified malignant neoplasm of skin of right ear and external auricular canal
What it is
This code identifies a malignant skin tumor on the right ear or external auricular canal when the exact skin cancer type is not documented. Use it when the site is known, but the pathology or subtype is unspecified.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Findings may include a suspicious ear lesion, nonhealing ulcer, bleeding, crusting, or a changing pigmented or raised growth.
When to use this code
Use this code when the provider documents a malignant neoplasm of skin affecting the right ear or external auricular canal and does not specify basal cell, squamous cell, or another type. It also fits cases where the site is confirmed by exam, biopsy, or pathology, but the cancer subtype remains unspecified. Verify laterality and location in the record.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for benign skin lesions, premalignant changes, or cancers of a different ear site. Check documentation if the lesion is on the left ear, both ears, or an unspecified ear location.
Coding tip
Code the most specific documented ear site and laterality first; if the pathology type is named, use the more specific skin cancer code instead.