ICD-10 Code D12 – Benign neoplasm of colon, rectum, anus and anal canal (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code D12 – Benign neoplasm of colon, rectum, anus and anal canal
What it is
D12 identifies a noncancerous growth in the colon, rectum, anus, or anal canal. Use it when documentation says benign neoplasm and does not specify a more detailed site.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. These lesions are often found on endoscopy, imaging, or pathology after evaluation of bleeding, anemia, change in bowel habits, or an incidental finding.
When to use this code
Use D12 when the provider documents a benign neoplasm of the colon, rectum, anus, or anal canal without a more specific subsite code. It also fits confirmed benign pathology after polyp or mass removal when the record supports a benign diagnosis. If the site is specified, code the more precise D12 subcategory.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for malignant neoplasms, carcinoma in situ, or inflammatory bowel disease. If the documentation only says “polyp” or the diagnosis is uncertain, check documentation before coding.
Coding tip
Match the documented anatomic site closely, because D12 has site-specific subcodes and the most precise code should be selected.