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v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesQ38.3

Q38.3

Billable

Other congenital malformations of tongue

BILLABLE STATUSYes
IMPLEMENTATION DATEOctober 1, 2015
LAST UPDATED09/11/2025

Code Description

ICD-10 Q38.3 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of other congenital malformations of tongue.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Congenital malformations of the tongue can present in various forms, including ankyloglossia (tongue-tie), macroglossia (enlarged tongue), and microglossia (undersized tongue). These conditions may affect feeding, speech, and overall oral function. Ankyloglossia, for instance, can lead to difficulties in breastfeeding and later speech articulation issues. Macroglossia can be associated with syndromes such as Down syndrome or Beckwith-Wiedemann syndrome, impacting the airway and leading to obstructive sleep apnea. Microglossia, while less common, can also pose challenges in oral function. The management of these conditions often requires a multidisciplinary approach, including pediatricians, speech therapists, and sometimes surgical intervention. Accurate coding is essential for appropriate treatment planning and reimbursement.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variability in presentation and severity of tongue malformations
  • Potential association with other congenital anomalies
  • Need for detailed clinical documentation to support coding
  • Differentiation from acquired conditions

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of the specific type of malformation
  • Failure to note associated congenital conditions
  • Misclassification of congenital versus acquired conditions
  • Lack of clarity in treatment plans and outcomes

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Pediatrics

Documentation Requirements

Detailed clinical notes on feeding difficulties, speech assessments, and any interventions performed.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Infants with ankyloglossia presenting with breastfeeding challenges, children with macroglossia requiring evaluation for airway obstruction.

Billing Considerations

Consideration of the impact of tongue malformations on developmental milestones and the need for interdisciplinary referrals.

Genetics

Documentation Requirements

Genetic testing results, family history of congenital conditions, and any syndromic associations.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients with macroglossia evaluated for genetic syndromes, genetic counseling for families with a history of congenital malformations.

Billing Considerations

Awareness of chromosomal abnormalities that may present with tongue malformations, such as trisomy 21.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use Q38.3 When
  • Follow the official ICD
  • CM coding guidelines for congenital conditions, ensuring specificity in documentation and coding based on clinical findings and treatment plans

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use Q38.3 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

40820CPT Code

Frenotomy

Clinical Scenario

Performed for ankyloglossia to improve feeding and speech.

Documentation Requirements

Pre-operative assessment, consent, and post-operative follow-up notes.

Specialty Considerations

Pediatric specialists should document the necessity of the procedure based on functional impairment.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for greater specificity in coding congenital malformations, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for greater specificity in coding congenital malformations, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement processes.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    ICD-10-CM Official Guidelines for Coding and Reporting

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    ICD-10-CM Official Guidelines for Coding and Reporting

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the common congenital malformations of the tongue?

Common congenital malformations include ankyloglossia, macroglossia, and microglossia, each presenting unique challenges in feeding, speech, and airway management.