ICD-10 Code C44.22 – Squamous cell carcinoma of skin of ear and external auricular canal (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code C44.22 – Squamous cell carcinoma of skin of ear and external auricular canal
What it is
This code identifies a malignant squamous cell carcinoma arising in the skin of the ear or external auricular canal. Use it when the documented primary site is the ear or external ear canal.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include a persistent scaly or crusted lesion, a nonhealing ulcer, or a raised, sometimes tender growth. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use C44.22 when the provider documents squamous cell carcinoma specifically involving the skin of the ear or external auricular canal. It is appropriate for confirmed diagnoses in outpatient, inpatient, or pathology-supported records. If the site is described more broadly or another skin site is documented, check documentation.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for benign ear lesions, actinic keratosis, or other skin cancers with a different histology or site. Do not assign it when the record does not specify squamous cell carcinoma of the ear.
Coding tip
Verify both histology and anatomic site in the pathology or provider note before assigning C44.22.