ICD-10 Code C78.7 – Secondary malignant neoplasm of liver and intrahepatic bile duct (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code C78.7 – Secondary malignant neoplasm of liver and intrahepatic bile duct
What it is
This code identifies metastatic cancer that has spread to the liver or intrahepatic bile ducts from another primary site. Use it when the record clearly documents secondary malignant involvement of these organs.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Commonly, imaging or pathology shows metastatic lesions in the liver, and the primary cancer is identified elsewhere.
When to use this code
Use C78.7 when the provider documents secondary malignant neoplasm of the liver or intrahepatic bile duct, including metastatic disease confirmed by imaging, biopsy, or operative findings. Code it when the liver involvement is not the primary cancer site.
If the note states only “liver metastasis” or “metastatic disease to liver,” this code is usually appropriate. Make sure the documentation supports secondary malignancy and does not describe a benign liver lesion or primary liver cancer.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for primary liver cancer, benign liver masses, or nonspecific liver disease. Check documentation if the record does not clearly identify metastatic disease.
Coding tip
Verify the primary cancer site and document the metastatic relationship before assigning C78.7.