ICD-10 Code K13.3 – Hairy leukoplakia (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code K13.3 – Hairy leukoplakia
What it is
Hairy leukoplakia is a white, corrugated lesion on the side of the tongue, usually linked to Epstein-Barr virus reactivation. You code it when documentation names this specific oral lesion.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include a white plaque with a shaggy or hair-like surface that does not wipe off. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use K13.3 when the provider documents hairy leukoplakia, oral hairy leukoplakia, or an equivalent diagnosis. It is appropriate when the lesion is identified clinically and recorded as this condition. Check documentation if the note only describes a nonspecific white oral patch.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for oral thrush, leukoplakia without the “hairy” qualifier, or other white oral lesions. If the diagnosis is unclear, check documentation.
Coding tip
Code K13.3 only when the chart explicitly supports hairy leukoplakia, not just a tongue plaque or oral discoloration.