Malignant neoplasm of base of tongue (C01)
The ICD-10 code C01 is used to classify a malignant tumor located specifically at the base of the tongue. This code helps identify cancers in the head and neck region that involve this precise anatomical area.
Known by many names such as primary carcinoma of tongue base, carcinoma of base of tongue, or primary squamous cell carcinoma of base of tongue, this code covers malignant neoplasms originating on the dorsal surface of the tongue’s base. Understanding these synonyms is key for medical coders searching for the correct ICD-10 code for base of tongue cancer, which is distinct from cancers elsewhere in the oral cavity. This classification supports accurate diagnosis and treatment planning for patients with this specific type of head and neck cancer.
Neoplasms (C00–D49)
Malignant neoplasms of lip, oral cavity and pharynx (C00-C14)
- C01 Malignant neoplasm of base of tongue
Malignant neoplasm of base of tongue (C01)
Instructional Notations
Inclusion Terms
These terms are the conditions for which that code is to be used. The terms may be synonyms of the code title, or, in the case of "other specified" codes, the terms are a list of the various conditions assigned to that code. The inclusion terms are not necessarily exhaustive. Additional terms found only in the Alphabetic Index may also be assigned to a code.
- Malignant neoplasm of dorsal surface of base of tongue
- Malignant neoplasm of fixed part of tongue NOS
- Malignant neoplasm of posterior third of tongue
Use Additional Code
The “use additional code” indicates that a secondary code could be used to further specify the patient’s condition. This note is not mandatory and is only used if enough information is available to assign an additional code.
