ICD-10 Code K13.2 – Leukoplakia and other disturbances of oral epithelium, including tongue (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code K13.2 – Leukoplakia and other disturbances of oral epithelium, including tongue
What it is
K13.2 identifies leukoplakia and other noninflammatory disturbances of the oral epithelium, including the tongue. Use it for documented mucosal epithelial changes in the mouth when the record does not support a more specific oral lesion code.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include white oral patches that cannot be wiped away, or other abnormal epithelial changes of the oral mucosa. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use K13.2 when the provider documents leukoplakia, oral epithelial disturbance, or a similar noninflammatory lesion of the mouth or tongue. It fits cases where the diagnosis is established clinically or by biopsy and no more specific condition is recorded. Check documentation if the note suggests dysplasia, malignancy, or another oral disorder.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for inflammatory oral lesions, traumatic ulcers, or clearly specified neoplasms. If the documentation points to another oral disease, code that condition instead.
Coding tip
Confirm the provider’s exact wording and whether the lesion is on the tongue, oral mucosa, or both before assigning K13.2.