Leukoplakia of oral mucosa, including tongue

This code represents a white, thickened patch or plaque on the mucous membranes of the oral cavity, including the tongue, that cannot be rubbed off and is not attributable to any other definable disease. It is considered a potentially malignant disorder, meaning it carries an increased risk of transforming into squamous cell carcinoma.

Use this code when documentation explicitly states a diagnosis of leukoplakia affecting any part of the oral mucosa, such as the buccal mucosa, gingiva, palate, or tongue. This diagnosis is typically made clinically and often confirmed by biopsy to rule out malignancy.

• Differentiate from other white lesions like candidiasis (which can be scraped off) or lichen planus.
• Always review pathology reports if a biopsy was performed to confirm the diagnosis and rule out dysplasia or malignancy.
• Consider sequencing this code as a primary diagnosis when it is the reason for the encounter, or as a secondary diagnosis if it is an incidental finding or comorbidity.