Malignant neoplasm of lateral floor of mouth
ICD10CM code
Name of the Condition
- Malignant neoplasm of lateral floor of mouth
- Also known as Oral Floor Cancer, Sublingual Carcinoma
Summary
Malignant neoplasm of the lateral floor of the mouth is a type of oral cancer that occurs in the tissue lining the floor of the mouth, primarily affecting the area under the tongue. It is a serious condition that often requires prompt medical intervention.
Causes
The exact cause of this type of cancer is not always clear, but it is often associated with DNA changes in the cells of the mouth's epithelial lining. These changes result in uncontrolled cell division leading to tumor formation.
Risk Factors
- Tobacco use, including smoking and smokeless tobacco
- Heavy alcohol consumption
- Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection
- Poor oral hygiene
- Age (more common in individuals over 40)
- Gender (more prevalent in males)
- Exposure to harmful chemicals or heavy metals
Symptoms
- Persistent ulcers or sores in the mouth
- Lumps or thickening in the mouth or neck
- Difficulty swallowing or moving the tongue
- Bleeding or numbness in the mouth
- Change in voice or persistent sore throat
Diagnosis
- Physical examination by a healthcare professional
- Biopsy of the lesion
- Imaging studies such as MRI, CT scan, or PET scan
- Endoscopic examination
Treatment Options
- Surgery: To remove the tumor and some surrounding healthy tissue.
- Radiation Therapy: Uses high-energy rays to target and kill cancer cells.
- Chemotherapy: Involves drugs that destroy cancer cells, often used in combination with radiation.
- Targeted Drug Therapy: Utilizes drugs that specifically target cancer cell functions.
Each treatment option aims to eradicate the cancerous cells, prevent spread, and relieve symptoms.
Prognosis and Follow-Up
The prognosis depends on the stage and extent of the cancer at diagnosis. Early-stage cancers have a better outcome. Regular follow-up is critical to monitor for recurrence and manage any treatment-related side effects.
Complications
- Spread of cancer to nearby tissues or other body parts
- Difficulties with speech, eating, and swallowing
- Dental issues or loss of teeth
- Emotional and psychological impact
Lifestyle & Prevention
- Avoid tobacco and limit alcohol consumption
- Maintain good oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups
- Use sun protection for lips
- A balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables
- Consider HPV vaccination to reduce viral risk factors
When to Seek Professional Help
- Noticeable changes in mouth tissue, such as unexplained lumps or sores lasting more than two weeks
- Unusual bleeding or numbness in the mouth
- Persistent sore throat or hoarseness
Additional Resources
Tips for Medical Coders
- Ensure accurate mapping of the neoplasm to the specific location "lateral floor of mouth" under ICD-10 code C04.1.
- Double-check for documentation of the type and exact site of neoplasm to avoid miscoding.
- Be cautious of coding based on preliminary diagnoses; ensure definitive diagnosis via biopsy is confirmed.