Malignant neoplasm of liver, primary

This code signifies the presence of a cancerous tumor that originated in the liver tissue itself, rather than spreading from another part of the body. It represents the initial diagnosis of a primary hepatic malignancy.

Apply this code when documentation clearly states a diagnosis of primary liver cancer, such as hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) or cholangiocarcinoma originating within the liver. This code is appropriate for initial staging and treatment planning of de novo liver tumors.

• Differentiate carefully between primary liver cancer and metastatic liver cancer; the latter originates elsewhere and spreads to the liver.
• Ensure documentation specifies "primary" or "originating in the liver" to support this code.
• Do not use this code for benign liver neoplasms or secondary (metastatic) liver tumors.