Malignant neoplasm of central portion of female breast

This code signifies a primary cancerous tumor originating in the central part of the female breast, specifically the nipple and areola complex, or the underlying tissue directly beneath it. It indicates a malignant proliferation of cells within this specific anatomical region.

Apply this code when documentation clearly specifies a primary malignant neoplasm located in the central portion of the female breast. This includes diagnoses such as carcinoma of the nipple or subareolar carcinoma. Supporting documentation would include pathology reports confirming malignancy and imaging reports or operative notes detailing the tumor's central location.

• Ensure the documentation explicitly states "central portion" or "nipple/areola" to differentiate from other breast quadrants.
• Do not use for secondary malignancies or carcinoma in situ; specific codes exist for those conditions.
• Sequence as the primary diagnosis when the breast cancer is the reason for the encounter, followed by any relevant codes for laterality or specific histological types.