2025 ICD-10-CM code C02.4

Malignant neoplasm of the lingual tonsil (rounded lymphoid tissue located on either side of the tongue base).

Use additional codes to identify any contributing factors such as alcohol abuse (F10.-), tobacco use or dependence (F17.-, Z72.0, Z87.891), or history of HPV infection.

Medical necessity for treatment is established by the confirmed diagnosis of malignant neoplasm. The specific treatment approach is determined by the stage and characteristics of the cancer and the patient's overall health.

Clinicians should document the patient's presenting symptoms (e.g., ulcer on tonsil, sore throat, ear pain, difficulty swallowing, hoarseness, weight loss, neck mass, enlarged lymph nodes), examination findings (oral cavity, throat, and neck), diagnostic procedures (biopsy, FNA, endoscopy, imaging studies), and treatment plan (chemotherapy, radiation therapy, surgery).

In simple words: Cancer of the lingual tonsil, which is the lymphoid tissue at the base of the tongue.

Malignant neoplasm of lingual tonsil.This code represents a cancerous growth specifically affecting the lingual tonsil.

Example 1: A 55-year-old patient with a history of heavy smoking presents with a persistent sore throat and difficulty swallowing. Examination reveals an ulcerated lesion on the lingual tonsil. Biopsy confirms squamous cell carcinoma of the lingual tonsil., A 60-year-old female with a history of HPV infection reports a lump in her throat.Examination and imaging identify a mass in the region of the lingual tonsil.Biopsy confirms malignancy., During a routine check-up, a small, asymptomatic lesion is discovered on the lingual tonsil of a 70-year-old patient. Biopsy reveals early-stage malignant neoplasm.

Documentation should include the location and size of the tumor, presence of any metastasis, and confirmation of the diagnosis through biopsy. Additional documentation regarding risk factors (e.g., smoking, alcohol use, HPV exposure) is also beneficial.

** Excludes2: malignant neoplasm of tonsil NOS (C09.9)

  • Specialties:Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Oncology, Radiation Oncology
  • Place of Service:Office, Inpatient Hospital, Outpatient Hospital, Ambulatory Surgical Center
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