Malignant neoplasm of tongue, unspecified

This code signifies a cancerous growth originating in the tongue, where the specific subsite or location within the tongue has not been identified or documented. It indicates a primary malignancy of the tongue without further anatomical detail.

Use this code when the medical record clearly states a diagnosis of malignant neoplasm of the tongue, but lacks specificity regarding the anterior two-thirds, base, or other parts of the tongue. This is appropriate when the physician's documentation only provides a general diagnosis of "tongue cancer" without further anatomical detail.

• Avoid using this code if more specific documentation regarding the subsite of the tongue malignancy is available (e.g., base of tongue, anterior two-thirds).
• Always query the physician for greater specificity if the documentation is vague, as more precise codes exist for different tongue subsites.
• This code should be sequenced as the primary diagnosis when it is the reason for the encounter or treatment.