ICD-10 Code C49 – Malignant neoplasm of other connective and soft tissue (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code C49 – Malignant neoplasm of other connective and soft tissue
What it is
C49 identifies a malignant tumor arising in connective or soft tissue sites not classified elsewhere. Use it when the record documents a soft tissue sarcoma or another malignant neoplasm in these tissues without a more specific code.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Common findings may include a growing mass, pain, swelling, or local functional limitation, but the diagnosis must be supported by pathology, imaging, or specialist assessment.
When to use this code
Use C49 when the provider documents a malignant neoplasm of connective tissue or soft tissue and no more specific anatomic or histologic code is available. It may apply to tumors in muscle, fibrous tissue, fat, or related soft tissues. Check documentation for exact site and whether a more specific code exists.
Do not use for
Do not use C49 for benign soft tissue masses, unspecified neoplasms without malignant confirmation, or cancers with a more precise site-specific code. Check documentation if the tumor is actually from bone, skin, or another primary site.
Coding tip
Verify the exact tissue site and pathology wording before assigning C49.