Malig neoplasm of scapula and long bones of unsp upper limb

This code signifies a primary cancerous tumor originating in the scapula (shoulder blade) or any of the long bones (humerus, radius, ulna) of an upper limb when the laterality (left or right) is not specified in the medical record. This malignancy is characterized by uncontrolled cell growth within the bone tissue.

Assign this code when documentation confirms a primary malignant neoplasm of the scapula or a long bone of the upper limb, and the physician's notes do not specify whether it affects the left or right side. This is typically used when the laterality is unknown or not documented at the time of coding.

• Always seek clarification from the provider if laterality is missing for a primary bone malignancy.
• Do not use this code if the documentation specifies left (C40.01) or right (C40.02) upper limb.
• This code is for primary bone cancer; use secondary neoplasm codes for metastatic disease to these sites.