ICD-10 Code C72.4 – Malignant neoplasm of acoustic nerve (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code C72.4 – Malignant neoplasm of acoustic nerve
What it is
C72.4 identifies a malignant tumor involving the acoustic nerve, also called the vestibulocochlear nerve. Use it when documentation states a primary cancer of this nerve or a malignant neoplasm centered on the acoustic nerve.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Commonly reported findings may include hearing loss, tinnitus, dizziness, or balance problems when the tumor affects cranial nerve function.
When to use this code
Use C72.4 when the provider documents malignant neoplasm of the acoustic nerve, acoustic nerve cancer, or a primary malignant tumor of the vestibulocochlear nerve. Code it from the final diagnosis, imaging report, pathology, or specialist assessment if the location is clearly stated.
If the record only says “mass,” “lesion,” or “tumor” without malignant confirmation, check documentation before assigning this code. Make sure the site is the acoustic nerve and not another cerebellopontine angle structure.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for benign acoustic neuroma, schwannoma, or unspecified nerve tumors. Check documentation if the lesion is described as vestibular rather than malignant.
Coding tip
Verify both malignancy and exact nerve site in the report before coding.