ICD-10 Code C49.1 – Malignant neoplasm of connective and soft tissue of upper limb, including shoulder (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code C49.1 – Malignant neoplasm of connective and soft tissue of upper limb, including shoulder
What it is
This code identifies a malignant tumor arising in the connective or soft tissues of the upper limb, including the shoulder. Use it when the documentation specifies a primary soft tissue cancer in that anatomic site.
Clinical signs
Clinical features may include a growing mass, pain, swelling, or reduced function in the arm or shoulder. Imaging and pathology typically support the diagnosis; if details are unclear, check documentation.
When to use this code
Use C49.1 when the provider documents a malignant neoplasm of soft tissue or connective tissue in the upper limb or shoulder region. It also fits when the site is described as arm, forearm, hand, or shoulder and the tumor is primary at that location. If the record only says “sarcoma” without site confirmation, verify the exact location first.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for skin cancers, bone tumors, or metastatic disease to the upper limb. If the documentation points to a different primary site or a nonspecific mass, check documentation.
Coding tip
Confirm both the malignant nature and the exact anatomic site before assigning C49.1.