ICD-10 Code C71.8 – Malignant neoplasm of overlapping sites of brain (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code C71.8 – Malignant neoplasm of overlapping sites of brain
What it is
C71.8 identifies a malignant brain tumor that overlaps two or more adjacent intracranial sites, so no single brain location fully describes the lesion. Use it when the record states overlapping sites of the brain.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary by tumor size and location. Common findings may include headaches, seizures, focal neurologic deficits, or signs of increased intracranial pressure; refer to documentation for the specific presentation.
When to use this code
Use this code when the provider documents a malignant neoplasm involving overlapping brain sites and does not name one dominant site. It is also appropriate when imaging or operative notes describe spread across adjacent brain regions. Check documentation if the site is unclear.
Do not use for
Do not use C71.8 for benign brain tumors, metastatic disease to the brain, or a malignant neoplasm limited to one specific brain site. If the record names a single site, code that location instead.
Coding tip
Code the most specific brain site available; use C71.8 only when overlap is explicitly documented or the lesion crosses adjacent sites without a single primary site.