ICD-10 Code C53.1 – Malignant neoplasm of exocervix (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code C53.1 – Malignant neoplasm of exocervix
What it is
C53.1 identifies a malignant tumor arising in the exocervix, the outer portion of the cervix. Use it when documentation specifies cancer of the exocervix rather than the endocervix or cervix, unspecified.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Commonly reported findings may include abnormal vaginal bleeding, postcoital bleeding, pelvic pain, or an abnormal cervical exam, but diagnosis depends on confirmed malignant disease.
When to use this code
Use C53.1 when the provider documents malignant neoplasm of the exocervix, including biopsy-confirmed cervical cancer limited to that site. It is also appropriate when the record clearly identifies the exocervix as the primary location. If the site is unclear, check documentation before coding.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for benign cervical lesions, dysplasia, or carcinoma in situ unless the record supports invasive malignancy. Avoid it when the cancer site is documented as endocervix, cervix unspecified, or another gynecologic site.
Coding tip
Code the documented anatomic site exactly; if the record only says “cervical cancer,” you should query for the specific cervix location.