What is the correct ICD-10-CM code for a malignant pancreatic mass?

The appropriate ICD-10-CM code for a malignant pancreatic mass is C25.9, which denotes malignant neoplasm of the pancreas, unspecified. This code is used when the specific location within the pancreas is not documented or is unknown. The pancreas can have malignant tumors in various locations, such as the head, body, or tail, and C25.9 is used as a general classification for malignancy when there is insufficient detail provided.

Codes like C25.0, C25.3, and C25.8 refer to more specific locations of the pancreatic malignancy. For instance, C25.0 specifies a malignant neoplasm of the pancreatic head. If the medical documentation had identified a specific part of the pancreas where the malignancy occurred, one of those other codes would be more appropriate. The general code, C25.9, ensures accurate reporting when specific details are lacking.