1. Home
  2. ICD-10-CM Codes List
  3. C00–D49
  4. C00-C14
  5. Malignant neoplasm of oropharynx (C10)

Malignant neoplasm of oropharynx (C10)

The ICD-10 code C10 series is specifically used to classify malignant neoplasms of the oropharynx, which is the middle part of the throat behind the mouth. These codes cover various locations within the oropharynx and different tumor types, identifying cancers in areas such as the vallecula, epiglottis, lateral and posterior walls, branchial cleft, and overlapping sites.

For example, the ICD-10 code C10.0 refers to malignant tumors of the vallecula, also known by synonyms like "squamous cell carcinoma of vallecula" or "malignant tumor of vallecula." Code C10.1 applies to cancers on the anterior surface of the epiglottis, sometimes called "squamous cell carcinoma of epiglottis." Each code in this range precisely defines the tumor’s location to aid accurate diagnosis and treatment. The C10.9 code covers unspecified oropharyngeal cancers, including a broad spectrum of carcinoma types such as basaloid, papillary squamous, adenoid cystic, and mucoepidermoid carcinoma. Using these codes helps healthcare professionals document and report malignant oropharyngeal tumors effectively, facilitating proper clinical management and research.

Instructional Notations

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.

  • code to identify:
  • alcohol abuse and dependence F10
  • exposure to environmental tobacco smoke Z77.22
  • exposure to tobacco smoke in the perinatal period P96.81
  • history of tobacco dependence Z87.891
  • occupational exposure to environmental tobacco smoke Z57.31
  • tobacco dependence F17
  • tobacco use Z72.0

Type 2 Excludes

A type 2 excludes note represents "Not included here". An excludes2 note indicates that the condition excluded is not part of the condition represented by the code, but a patient may have both conditions at the same time. When an Excludes2 note appears under a code, it is acceptable to use both the code and the excluded code together, when appropriate.

  • malignant neoplasm of tonsil C09

Clinical Terms

The following clinical terms provide additional context, helping users better understand the clinical background and common associations for each diagnosis listed in this section. Including related terms alongside ICD-10-CM codes supports coders, billers, and healthcare professionals in improving accuracy, enhancing documentation, and facilitating research or patient education.

Oropharyngeal Neoplasms

Tumors or cancer of the OROPHARYNX.

Oropharynx

The middle portion of the pharynx that lies posterior to the mouth, inferior to the SOFT PALATE, and superior to the base of the tongue and EPIGLOTTIS. It has a digestive function as food passes from the mouth into the oropharynx before entering ESOPHAGUS.

Squamous Cell Carcinoma of Head and Neck

The most common type of head and neck carcinoma that originates from cells on the surface of the NASAL CAVITY; MOUTH; PARANASAL SINUSES, SALIVARY GLANDS, and LARYNX. Mutations in TNFRSF10B, PTEN, and ING1 genes are associated with this cancer.