ICD-10 Code C02.9 – Malignant neoplasm of tongue, unspecified (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code C02.9 – Malignant neoplasm of tongue, unspecified
What it is
This code identifies a malignant tumor of the tongue when the exact site is not documented. Use it for tongue cancer without a more specific subsite.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Common findings include a persistent tongue lesion, pain, ulceration, bleeding, or difficulty speaking or swallowing.
When to use this code
Use C02.9 when the record confirms a malignant neoplasm of the tongue but does not specify the anterior, dorsal, lateral, or other subsite. It also fits cases where pathology or provider documentation states “tongue cancer” without further detail. If a more specific site is documented, code that instead.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for benign tongue lesions, carcinoma in situ, or cancers clearly arising from another oral site. Check documentation if the lesion is described as uncertain or metastatic rather than primary.
Coding tip
Query the provider when the tongue subsite is missing, because a more specific code may be available.