ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding
ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding
ICD 10 CodesDiagnoses
ICD 10 CodesDiagnoses
ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding

Comprehensive ICD-10-CM code reference with AI-powered search capabilities.

© 2025 ICD Code Compass. All rights reserved.

Browse

  • All Chapters
  • All Categories
  • Diagnoses

Tools

  • AI Code Search
ICD-10-CM codes are maintained by the CDC and CMS. This tool is for reference purposes only.
v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesC02.2

C02.2

Billable

Malignant neoplasm of ventral surface of tongue

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

Code Description

ICD-10 C02.2 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of malignant neoplasm of ventral surface of tongue.

Key Diagnostic Point:

C02.2 refers to a malignant neoplasm located on the ventral surface of the tongue, which is the underside of the tongue. This type of cancer is often squamous cell carcinoma, which is the most common form of oral cancer. The ventral surface of the tongue is particularly susceptible to carcinogenic factors such as tobacco use, alcohol consumption, and human papillomavirus (HPV) infection. Symptoms may include a persistent sore or ulcer on the tongue, difficulty swallowing, and changes in speech. Diagnosis typically involves a biopsy, imaging studies, and thorough clinical evaluation. Treatment options may include surgical resection, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy, depending on the stage of the cancer. The prognosis varies based on the tumor's size, location, and whether it has metastasized to lymph nodes or other areas. Early detection is crucial for improving outcomes, making awareness of symptoms and risk factors essential for both patients and healthcare providers.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variability in tumor staging and grading
  • Need for precise documentation of tumor location
  • Potential for multiple treatment modalities
  • Differentiation from benign lesions

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of tumor size and staging
  • Failure to document treatment plans and responses
  • Misclassification of tumor type (benign vs malignant)
  • Lack of follow-up documentation

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Oncology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed pathology reports, imaging studies, and treatment plans must be documented.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with oral lesions, difficulty swallowing, or unexplained weight loss.

Billing Considerations

Ensure accurate staging and grading of the tumor to guide treatment decisions.

Otolaryngology

Documentation Requirements

Comprehensive examination findings, including endoscopic evaluations and biopsy results.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients with persistent sore throat, hoarseness, or lesions on the tongue.

Billing Considerations

Document any surgical interventions and post-operative care thoroughly.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use C02.2 When
  • Follow the official ICD
  • CM coding guidelines, ensuring accurate documentation of the tumor's location, size, and staging
  • Include any relevant treatment information and follow
  • up care

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use C02.2 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

41100CPT Code

Excision, tumor, tongue

Clinical Scenario

Used when a malignant neoplasm is surgically excised.

Documentation Requirements

Document the size, location, and type of tumor excised.

Specialty Considerations

Oncologists and otolaryngologists should ensure accurate coding of the excision site.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of malignancies, including the ventral surface of the tongue, improving data accuracy and treatment tracking.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of malignancies, including the ventral surface of the tongue, improving data accuracy and treatment tracking.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of malignancies, including the ventral surface of the tongue, improving data accuracy and treatment tracking.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    American Cancer Society - Oral Cancers

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    American Cancer Society - Oral Cancers

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the common symptoms of a malignant neoplasm on the ventral surface of the tongue?

Common symptoms include persistent sores or ulcers, difficulty swallowing, changes in speech, and unexplained weight loss.

How is C02.2 diagnosed?

Diagnosis typically involves a clinical examination, imaging studies, and a biopsy to confirm malignancy.

What treatments are available for C02.2?

Treatment options may include surgical resection, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy, depending on the stage of the cancer.