ICD-10 Code C44.701 – Unspecified malignant neoplasm of skin of unspecified lower limb, including hip (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code C44.701 – Unspecified malignant neoplasm of skin of unspecified lower limb, including hip
What it is
This code identifies a malignant skin tumor on the lower limb or hip when the exact site is not documented. Use it when the record confirms skin cancer but does not specify left, right, or a more exact location.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Skin cancer may appear as a persistent sore, a changing lesion, an ulcerated area, or a new growth, but the diagnosis must be supported by the provider’s note or pathology.
When to use this code
Use this code when the provider documents a malignant neoplasm of the skin on an unspecified lower limb, including the hip, and no laterality or exact subsite is given. It is appropriate for outpatient, inpatient, or pathology-based documentation when the site remains unspecified. If the chart gives a more specific location, code that instead.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for benign skin lesions, carcinoma in situ, or non-skin malignancies involving the leg or hip. Check documentation if the lesion is reported as a metastasis or if the site is described more specifically.
Coding tip
If the pathology or operative note names the exact limb or hip site, query for clarification before defaulting to an unspecified code.