Malignant neoplasm of endocrine gland, site unspecified

This code signifies a cancerous tumor originating in an endocrine gland, where the specific gland involved is not documented. Endocrine glands produce hormones and include organs such as the thyroid, adrenal glands, pituitary, and parathyroid. The malignancy is confirmed, but its precise anatomical origin within the endocrine system remains undetermined.

Use this code when a malignant neoplasm of an endocrine gland is diagnosed, but the medical record lacks specificity regarding the primary site. This typically occurs in cases of metastatic disease where the primary endocrine tumor is unknown, or when initial pathology confirms malignancy of endocrine origin without further localization. Documentation should clearly state "malignant neoplasm of endocrine gland, site unspecified" or similar.

• Avoid using this code if a more specific endocrine gland (e.g., thyroid, adrenal) is documented as the primary site.
• Always query the provider for clarification on the primary site if possible, as more specific codes exist.
• This code should generally be a last resort when all efforts to identify a more precise primary site have failed.