ICD-10 Code K14.1 – Geographic tongue (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code K14.1 – Geographic tongue
What it is
K14.1 identifies geographic tongue, a benign condition of the tongue’s surface. It is marked by shifting, map-like areas of loss of papillae that may change location over time.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include smooth red patches with irregular white or yellow borders on the tongue. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation if the appearance, symptoms, or pattern are unclear.
When to use this code
Use K14.1 when the provider documents geographic tongue, benign migratory glossitis, or a clearly described map-like tongue pattern. Code it when the diagnosis is established and the finding is not being recorded only as a nonspecific tongue complaint. Check documentation if the note mentions another tongue disorder or an uncertain lesion.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for oral ulcers, tongue trauma, infection, or malignancy. If the record only says “tongue pain” or “tongue lesion” without geographic tongue, do not assign K14.1.
Coding tip
Confirm the provider names the condition as geographic tongue or benign migratory glossitis before coding.