K14: Diseases of tongue

K14.8: Other diseases of tongue

Diseases of the tongue, falling under ICD-10 code K14.8, represent a variety of health conditions affecting the tongue. These could involve structural issues, infections, or abnormal growths like benign or malignant tumours. Structural issues may cause irregularities in the shape or size of the tongue, while infections may lead to inflammation, pain, and changes in taste or color. Tumours might result in lumps, ulcers, or discoloration. These conditions may develop as a result of a wide range of triggers such as certain bacterial or viral infections, tobacco use, poor oral hygiene, or existing oral diseases. Symptoms generally include pain, discomfort when speaking or eating, alterations in taste, and visible changes to the tongue's appearance. The progression of these diseases can lead to more challenging complications like difficulty swallowing or speaking if not addressed in a timely manner.