What is the ICD‑10‑CM code for metastatic cancer of the right breast?

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ICD-10-CM Code for Metastatic Right Breast Cancer

The ICD-10-CM code for metastatic cancer of the right breast is C50.911 (malignant neoplasm of unspecified site of right female breast) combined with a secondary code indicating the site(s) of metastasis (C77-C79 series).

Coding Structure

For accurate documentation of metastatic right breast cancer, you need two codes:

Primary Site Code

  • C50.911: Malignant neoplasm of unspecified site of right female breast
  • If the specific quadrant or site within the right breast is known, use more specific codes:
    • C50.011 (upper-outer quadrant, right)
    • C50.111 (upper-inner quadrant, right)
    • C50.211 (lower-outer quadrant, right)
    • C50.311 (lower-inner quadrant, right)
    • C50.411 (central portion, right)
    • C50.511 (nipple and areola, right)
    • C50.611 (axillary tail, right)
    • C50.811 (overlapping sites, right)

Secondary Site Code(s)

Add appropriate metastatic site codes:

  • C79.51: Secondary malignant neoplasm of bone
  • C78.00: Secondary malignant neoplasm of unspecified lung
  • C78.7: Secondary malignant neoplasm of liver
  • C79.31: Secondary malignant neoplasm of brain
  • C77.x: Secondary and unspecified malignant neoplasm of lymph nodes (specify region)

Clinical Context

The coding reflects the clinical reality that approximately 4-10% of breast cancers present with metastatic disease at diagnosis, and up to 30% of node-negative and 70% of node-positive breast cancers will eventually develop metastases 1. Always code both the primary breast site and all documented metastatic sites to accurately capture disease burden and support appropriate treatment planning.

Important Coding Considerations

  • Sequence the primary breast cancer code first (C50.x), followed by metastatic site codes
  • For male breast cancer, use C50.x21 series instead of C50.x11
  • Document laterality (right vs. left) as this impacts surgical and radiation planning
  • The specific anatomic location within the breast should be coded when known, as this information is clinically relevant for treatment decisions

References

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This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.