ICD-10 Code C44.59 – Other specified malignant neoplasm of skin of trunk (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code C44.59 – Other specified malignant neoplasm of skin of trunk
What it is
C44.59 identifies a malignant skin cancer on the trunk when the record specifies the site but not a more specific skin cancer code. Use it for cancers of the chest, back, abdomen, or similar trunk skin locations.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Typical notes may describe a suspicious or biopsy-proven malignant skin lesion on the trunk, with local skin changes such as a growing mass, ulceration, bleeding, or nonhealing area.
When to use this code
Use C44.59 when the provider documents a malignant neoplasm of skin on the trunk and no more specific ICD-10 code applies. It is appropriate when the chart identifies the trunk site but not a more detailed subsite. If the pathology or note names a specific skin cancer type and location, code that documentation instead.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for benign skin lesions, carcinoma in situ, or malignant neoplasms of skin at other body sites. Check documentation if the lesion is on the face, scalp, neck, limbs, or if the diagnosis is not clearly malignant.
Coding tip
Code from the provider’s exact anatomic wording; if the trunk subsite is unclear, check documentation before assigning C44.59.