K13: Other diseases of lip and oral mucosa
K13.3: Hairy leukoplakia
The mucous membrane is a moist skin. The whole of the oral cavity is lined with mucous membrane.
Changes in the mucous membrane can appear as patches or stripes. The patches or stripes may be whitish.
Changes in the mucous membrane can occur due to a weakened immune system. The immune system can be weakened by HIV, for example. Then other viruses can cause a change to the mucous membrane. These changes are then typically visible on the side of the tongue. But they can also occur in other places in the mouth.
Patient Disclaimer
The information provided on this page is for general educational purposes only. It is not intended for self-diagnosis and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor or a qualified healthcare provider with any questions or concerns about your health.
If you see an ICD diagnosis code (e.g., on a medical report), be aware that doctors may also include additional indicators to express diagnostic certainty. Only a healthcare professional can interpret these codes accurately in the context of your individual case.
For a complete understanding of your condition and what the diagnosis means for you, please speak directly with your doctor.