ICD-10 Code D37.02 – Neoplasm of uncertain behavior of tongue (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code D37.02 – Neoplasm of uncertain behavior of tongue
What it is
D37.02 identifies a tongue growth whose behavior is uncertain at the time of diagnosis. You use it when pathology or clinical documentation cannot yet confirm whether the lesion is benign or malignant.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. The lesion may be described as a mass, nodule, ulcer, plaque, or other abnormal tongue finding, with uncertainty about its biologic behavior.
When to use this code
Use this code when the provider documents a neoplasm of uncertain behavior involving the tongue and no more specific diagnosis is established. It is appropriate for cases awaiting definitive pathology or when the report states uncertain or borderline behavior. Code the documented site as the tongue, not the oral cavity in general.
Do not use for
Do not use D37.02 if the lesion is documented as benign, malignant, in situ, or metastatic. Check documentation if the record only describes a symptom, ulcer, or unspecified oral lesion without neoplasm language.
Coding tip
Look for the provider’s exact wording on behavior and site before assigning D37.02.