Start New EnglishEspañol中文РусскийالعربيةTiếng ViệtFrançaisDeutsch한국어Tagalog Library Performance
BETA v.3.0

2025 ICD-10-CM code K12.2

Cellulitis and abscess of mouth.

Do not use K12.2 for abscesses of specific structures within the mouth (e.g., salivary gland, tongue). Use additional codes to identify any underlying conditions, such as alcohol abuse or tobacco use.

Medical necessity is established by the presence of signs and symptoms of infection, such as pain, swelling, redness, and/or purulent drainage. Treatment is necessary to prevent the spread of infection and potential complications.

Cellulitis and abscess of mouth. Includes: Cellulitis of mouth (floor), Submandibular abscess. Excludes2: abscess of salivary gland (K11.3), abscess of tongue (K14.0), periapical abscess (K04.6-K04.7), periodontal abscess (K05.21), peritonsillar abscess (J36)

Example 1: A patient presents with swelling and redness on the floor of their mouth, along with pain and difficulty swallowing.Diagnosis: Cellulitis of floor of mouth (K12.2)., A patient has a painful, fluctuant swelling beneath their jaw.Diagnosis: Submandibular abscess (K12.2)., A patient with a history of poor oral hygiene experiences fever, chills, and a swollen, tender area inside their mouth. Diagnosis: Cellulitis and abscess of mouth (K12.2).

Documentation should include physical exam findings (e.g., swelling, redness, tenderness, fluctuance), location of the cellulitis/abscess, and associated symptoms. If imaging studies (e.g., CT scan) are performed, the results should be documented.Any procedures performed, such as incision and drainage, should also be noted.

** Only Enterprise users with EHR integration can access case-specific answers. Click here to request access.

Discover what matters.

iFrame™ AI's knowledge is aligned with and limited to the materials uploaded by users and should not be interpreted as medical, legal, or any other form of advice by iFrame™.