ICD-10 Code D33.3 – Benign neoplasm of cranial nerves (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code D33.3 – Benign neoplasm of cranial nerves
What it is
D33.3 identifies a noncancerous tumor arising from one or more cranial nerves. It is used when documentation states a benign neoplasm involving the cranial nerves, including common nerve sheath tumors.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Common findings may include progressive hearing loss, tinnitus, balance problems, facial numbness, or other cranial nerve deficits, depending on the nerve involved.
When to use this code
Use D33.3 when the provider documents a benign tumor of a cranial nerve and the site is not better described by another code. It may also fit imaging or pathology-confirmed benign cranial nerve neoplasm when the record supports that diagnosis. Check documentation if the nerve or behavior is unclear.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for malignant neoplasms, metastatic disease, or nonspecific symptoms without a documented benign tumor. If the lesion is in the brain, meninges, or another site, choose the more specific code.
Coding tip
Verify the exact nerve and tumor behavior in the record before coding, and query if the documentation only says “mass” or “lesion.”