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v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesC02.3

C02.3

Billable

Malignant neoplasm of anterior two-thirds of tongue, part unspecified

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

Code Description

ICD-10 C02.3 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of malignant neoplasm of anterior two-thirds of tongue, part unspecified.

Key Diagnostic Point:

C02.3 refers to a malignant neoplasm located in the anterior two-thirds of the tongue, where the specific part of the tongue affected is not specified. This type of cancer is often squamous cell carcinoma, which is the most common form of oral cancer. Symptoms may include a persistent sore throat, difficulty swallowing, changes in speech, and a visible lesion on the tongue. Diagnosis typically involves a biopsy and imaging studies to assess the extent of the disease. Treatment options may include surgery, 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. Early detection is crucial for improving outcomes, as tongue cancers can be aggressive and may lead to significant morbidity if not treated promptly.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

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

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of tumor size and location
  • Failure to document staging details
  • Misclassification of benign vs malignant lesions
  • Lack of follow-up documentation post-treatment

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Oncology

Documentation Requirements

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

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with lesions on the tongue, difficulty swallowing, or unexplained weight loss.

Billing Considerations

Ensure accurate staging and treatment documentation to support coding.

Otolaryngology

Documentation Requirements

Thorough examination notes, biopsy results, and surgical reports are essential.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients with persistent sore throat or oral lesions requiring surgical intervention.

Billing Considerations

Document the extent of the disease and any surgical margins involved.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use C02.3 When
  • Follow the official ICD
  • CM coding guidelines, ensuring accurate documentation of the malignancy's location, size, and staging
  • Include any relevant treatment details and follow
  • up care

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use C02.3 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

41100CPT Code

Excision, tumor, tongue

Clinical Scenario

Used when a malignant tumor is surgically excised from the tongue.

Documentation Requirements

Surgical notes detailing the procedure and findings.

Specialty Considerations

Oncologists and otolaryngologists must 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, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes. C02.3 provides a clear distinction for malignant neoplasms of the tongue, enhancing clinical understanding and treatment planning.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of malignancies, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes. C02.3 provides a clear distinction for malignant neoplasms of the tongue, enhancing clinical understanding and treatment planning.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement processes. C02.3 provides a clear distinction for malignant neoplasms of the tongue, enhancing clinical understanding and treatment planning.

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 malignant neoplasm of the tongue?

Common symptoms include a persistent sore or ulcer on the tongue, difficulty swallowing, changes in speech, and unexplained weight loss.