ICD-10 Code D12.1 – Benign neoplasm of appendix (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code D12.1 – Benign neoplasm of appendix
What it is
D12.1 identifies a noncancerous growth located in the appendix. Use it when documentation states a benign appendiceal tumor or polyp and there is no evidence of malignant behavior.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Patients may be asymptomatic or present with nonspecific abdominal findings, and the diagnosis is often established by imaging, surgery, or pathology.
When to use this code
Use D12.1 when the provider documents a benign neoplasm of the appendix, including pathology-confirmed benign lesions. It is appropriate after appendectomy or biopsy when the final diagnosis is benign appendiceal tumor. Check documentation if the report only says appendiceal mass or lesion without histology.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for malignant appendiceal tumors, uncertain behavior, or inflammatory appendiceal disease. If the record describes appendicitis or a nonspecific appendiceal abnormality, choose the documented condition instead.
Coding tip
Code D12.1 only when the record clearly supports a benign neoplasm; if pathology is missing, query for the final diagnosis.