ICD-10 Coding for Swelling of Tongue(K14.8, T78.3)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Swelling of Tongue. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Swelling of Tongue
K14-K14.8Primary Range
Diseases of tongue
Covers conditions related to intrinsic tongue pathology, including swelling without a specific diagnosis.
Adverse effects, not elsewhere classified
Used for allergic reactions causing tongue swelling, such as angioedema.
Localized swelling, mass and lump of skin and subcutaneous tissue
Generally not used for tongue swelling unless part of a broader head swelling.
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| K14.8 | Other diseases of tongue | Use when swelling results from intrinsic tongue pathology without allergic context. |
|
| T78.3 | Angioneurotic edema | Use for allergic or idiopathic angioedema involving the tongue. |
|
Clinical Decision Support
Always review the patient's clinical documentation thoroughly. When in doubt, choose the more specific code and ensure documentation supports it.
Key Information: ICD-10 code for tongue swelling
Essential facts and insights about Swelling of Tongue
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for swelling of tongue
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Persistent swelling without allergic context
coding Criteria
- Biopsy results confirming tongue disease
Applicable To
- Macroglossia
- Hypertrophy of tongue
Excludes
- Angioedema (T78.3)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Biopsy showing acanthosis or hyperkeratosis
- Ultrasound tongue thickness >4.5cm
Code-Specific Risks
- Misapplication for allergic reactions
- Lack of specific diagnosis leading to incorrect coding
Coding Notes
- Ensure documentation specifies non-allergic causes for accurate coding.
T78.3 - Angioneurotic edema
Use for allergic or idiopathic angioedema involving the tongue.
Applicable To
- Allergic angioedema
- Idiopathic angioedema
Excludes
- Hereditary angioedema (D84.1)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Serum tryptase >11.4 ng/mL during episode
- Response to epinephrine
Coding Notes
Ensure allergen or idiopathic nature is documented for accurate coding.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Documentation & Coding Risks
Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Swelling of Tongue to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code K14.8.
Impact
Clinical: Leads to misdiagnosis and inappropriate treatment., Regulatory: Non-compliance with documentation standards., Financial: Potential for denied claims due to incorrect coding.
Mitigation Strategy
Use specific descriptors for swelling, Document any known allergens or medications
Impact
Reimbursement: Incorrect DRG assignment leading to reimbursement issues., Compliance: Non-compliance with ICD-10 guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data representation.
Mitigation Strategy
Use K14.8 for tongue-specific conditions without head involvement.
Impact
Using R22.0 for tongue swelling without head involvement.
Mitigation Strategy
Educate coders on specific criteria for K14.8 and T78.3.
Documentation errors, coding pitfalls, and audit risks are interconnected aspects of medical coding and billing. Addressing all three areas helps ensure accurate coding, optimal reimbursement, and regulatory compliance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about ICD-10 coding for Swelling of Tongue, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Swelling of Tongue
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Swelling of Tongue. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Acute Tongue Swelling
Specialty: ENTRequired Elements
- Dimensions of swelling
- Texture and surface description
- Airway status
- Allergy history
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
Need help with ICD-10 coding for Swelling of Tongue? Ask your questions below.