ICD-10-CM 2027
ICD-10 code for lingual abscess
From the official ICD-10-CM alphabetic index entry “Abscess (connective tissue) (embolic) (fistulous) (infective) (metastatic) (multiple) (pernicious) (pyogenic) (septic) › lingual”. Page updated September 29, 2026.
About coding lingual abscess
The ICD-10-CM code for lingual abscess is K14.0 (Glossitis). The official index lists 1 more specific code, so check the documentation for details such as type, cause, site or severity before settling on K14.0.
Within K14 (diseases of tongue), K14.0 is specifically for glossitis. Related codes cover Geographic tongue (K14.1), median rhomboid glossitis (K14.2), hypertrophy of tongue papillae (K14.3), atrophy of tongue papillae (K14.4), Plicated tongue (K14.5), Glossodynia (K14.6), other diseases of tongue (K14.8) and disease of tongue, unspecified (K14.9).
Don't report K14.0 together with the conditions in its Excludes1 note: atrophic glossitis (K14.4).
Use an additional code to identify: alcohol abuse and dependence (F10.-), exposure to environmental tobacco smoke (Z77.22), history of tobacco dependence (Z87.891), occupational exposure to environmental tobacco smoke (Z57.31), tobacco dependence (F17.-) and 1 more.
More specific lingual abscess codes (official index)
- tonsil J36 — Peritonsillar abscess
Don't confuse with (Excludes1 for K14.0)
- atrophic glossitis (K14.4)
Common questions about lingual abscess ICD-10 codes
What is the ICD-10 code for lingual abscess?
- K14.0 — Glossitis. More specific codes apply when the documentation supports them: J36.
What is the ICD-10 code for tonsil lingual abscess?
- J36 — Peritonsillar abscess.
Is K14.0 billable?
- Yes. K14.0 is a billable/specific ICD-10-CM code valid for FY2027 (October 1, 2026 – September 30, 2027).
Can K14.0 be used as a principal diagnosis?
- Yes. The Medicare Code Editor doesn't restrict K14.0 as a principal diagnosis.
Is K14.0 a CC or MCC?
- No. K14.0 is neither a CC nor an MCC under MS-DRG v44.0.