Malignant neoplasm of dorsal surface of tongue

📋Clinical Description

This code identifies a primary cancerous growth located on the top surface of the tongue, anterior to the circumvallate papillae. It specifically refers to malignancies originating from the dorsal epithelium of the mobile tongue.

🎯When to Use

Apply this code when documentation confirms a primary malignant neoplasm of the dorsal surface of the anterior two-thirds of the tongue. Pathological confirmation of malignancy and precise anatomical location are crucial for accurate assignment.

💡Coding Tips

Differentiate from C01 for malignancies involving the dorsal surface of the base of the tongue.
Ensure documentation clearly specifies "dorsal surface" and excludes other tongue subsites.
Code any associated metastatic disease separately.

AI-generated reference — verify against official guidelines

Clinical Notes

Inclusion Terms

Malignant neoplasm of anterior two-thirds of tongue, dorsal surface

Excludes 2 — Not included here

malignant neoplasm of dorsal surface of base of tongue (C01)

Code Hierarchy

▲C02Malignant neoplasm of other and unspecified parts of tongue

C02.0(current)

Crosswalks

141.1ExactICD-9 141.1ExactICD-9

Same Category

C02Malignant neoplasm of other and unspecified parts of tongue C02.1Malignant neoplasm of border of tongue C02.2Malignant neoplasm of ventral surface of tongue C02.3