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v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesChapter 2: NeoplasmsC02

C02

Billable

Malignant neoplasm of other and unspecified parts of tongue

Chapter 2:Neoplasms

BILLABLE STATUSYes
IMPLEMENTATION DATEOctober 1, 2015
LAST UPDATED09/05/2025

Code Description

ICD-10 C02 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of malignant neoplasm of other and unspecified parts of tongue.

Key Diagnostic Point:

C02 refers to malignant neoplasms located in the other and unspecified parts of the tongue, which may include areas not specifically categorized under the anterior two-thirds or posterior one-third of the tongue. These tumors can arise from various cell types, including squamous cells, and may present with symptoms such as pain, difficulty swallowing, or changes in speech. The diagnosis is typically confirmed through biopsy and histopathological examination. Treatment options often include surgical resection, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy, depending on the tumor's size, location, and stage. The prognosis varies significantly based on the tumor's characteristics and the patient's overall health. Early detection and intervention are crucial for improving outcomes, as tongue malignancies can be aggressive and may metastasize to regional lymph nodes or distant sites if not treated promptly.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variability in tumor location and type
  • Need for precise staging (TNM classification)
  • Potential for multiple treatment modalities
  • Documentation of symptoms and clinical findings

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of tumor characteristics
  • Failure to specify the exact location of the neoplasm
  • Misclassification of benign vs malignant lesions
  • Lack of detailed treatment plans

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Oncology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed pathology reports, treatment plans, and follow-up notes are essential.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with tongue lesions, requiring biopsy and staging.

Billing Considerations

Ensure accurate staging and treatment documentation to support coding.

Otolaryngology

Documentation Requirements

Thorough examination notes, imaging studies, and surgical reports.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Management of tongue cancers, including surgical interventions and post-operative care.

Billing Considerations

Document the extent of disease and any lymph node involvement.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use C02 When
  • Follow the official ICD
  • CM coding guidelines, ensuring accurate documentation of the tumor's location, size, and staging
  • Include any relevant treatment details and follow
  • up care

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use C02 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related CPT Codes

41100CPT Code

Excision, tumor, tongue

Clinical Scenario

Used when a malignant neoplasm is surgically excised.

Documentation Requirements

Operative report detailing the procedure and findings.

Specialty Considerations

Ensure the surgical approach and extent of resection are documented.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of tongue malignancies, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes. C02 provides a distinct code for unspecified parts of the tongue, which was less clearly defined in ICD-9.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of tongue malignancies, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes. C02 provides a distinct code for unspecified parts of the tongue, which was less clearly defined in ICD-9.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement processes. C02 provides a distinct code for unspecified parts of the tongue, which was less clearly defined in ICD-9.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    American Cancer Society - Oral Cavity and Oropharyngeal Cancer

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    American Cancer Society - Oral Cavity and Oropharyngeal Cancer

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the common symptoms of malignant neoplasms of the tongue?

Common symptoms include pain, difficulty swallowing, changes in speech, and the presence of a non-healing ulcer or lesion on the tongue.

How is the staging for tongue malignancies performed?

Staging is performed using the TNM classification, which assesses the size of the tumor (T), lymph node involvement (N), and whether there is distant metastasis (M).