Secondary and unspecified malignant neoplasm of lymph nodes of head, face, and neck

This code signifies the presence of metastatic cancer within the lymph nodes located in the head, face, or neck regions. It indicates that the primary tumor originated elsewhere in the body and has spread to these specific lymph nodes. The "unspecified" aspect means the primary site is either unknown or not documented.

Apply this code when documentation clearly states metastatic carcinoma to cervical, supraclavicular, or other head/neck lymph nodes, and the primary malignancy is either unknown or not yet identified. This is appropriate for initial diagnosis of metastatic disease to these sites or for ongoing treatment of such metastases.

• Always search for a more specific code if the primary site of the malignancy is known.
• Do not use this code if the primary malignancy originated in the head, face, or neck; instead, code the primary site.
• Sequence this code after the primary malignancy if known, or as the principal diagnosis if the primary site is unknown and the focus of treatment is the metastatic disease.