ICD-11 Codes
for DA01.11 - Oral mucositis

Teodor Jurukovski January 1, 1970

Fact checked by: Teodor Jurukovski

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Understanding Oral Mucositis (ICD-11 Code DA01.11)

Oral mucositis, identified by ICD-11 code DA01.11, is a painful inflammatory condition affecting the mucous membranes lining the mouth. This condition is characterised by redness, swelling, and the development of ulcerations, which can also lead to bleeding. It is a common and often debilitating side effect of certain medical treatments, particularly chemotherapy and radiation therapy used in cancer care, as well as stem cell transplants. While typically temporary, oral mucositis can significantly impact a patient's quality of life, affecting their ability to eat, drink, and speak.

How Oral Mucositis is Identified

The diagnosis of oral mucositis is typically straightforward, relying on a patient's reported symptoms, medical history, and a clinical examination of the oral cavity. Healthcare providers assess the characteristic signs of inflammation, redness, swelling, and ulceration. In some instances, particularly if an infection is suspected as a secondary complication, further diagnostic tests such as blood tests may be performed to identify specific bacterial or fungal pathogens.

Managing Oral Mucositis

Oral mucositis generally resolves on its own once the causative treatment concludes, with healing times varying from a few weeks to a couple of months. Management focuses on alleviating symptoms, preventing complications, and supporting healing. Key strategies include:

• Pain Management: This is crucial and may involve topical anaesthetics, over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen, prescription pain medications, or specialised mouth rinses often referred to as 'magic mouthwash'.
• Oral Hygiene: Maintaining gentle oral care is vital. This includes frequent, soft-bristle brushing, gentle flossing, and rinsing with salt water or a baking soda solution. Alcohol-free mouthwashes can also be used.
• Dietary Modifications: Patients are advised to consume soft, mild foods, avoiding spicy, acidic, crunchy, or high-sugar items. Staying well-hydrated is also essential.
• Preventative Measures: While not always fully preventable, strategies like cryotherapy (sucking on ice chips during treatment) and certain medications are being explored to reduce severity and duration.

Factors Contributing to Oral Mucositis

The primary cause of oral mucositis is damage to the rapidly dividing cells of the oral mucosa by medical treatments. Cancer therapies, such as chemotherapy and radiation therapy (especially to the head and neck region), can indiscriminately target these fast-growing cells. Stem cell or bone marrow transplantation is another significant cause. Factors that may increase an individual's risk or severity of developing oral mucositis include smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, dehydration, poor nutritional status, low body mass index, pre-existing dental issues like gum disease or implants, and certain underlying health conditions such as kidney disease, diabetes, or HIV. It is important to note that oral mucositis is not an infectious process and cannot be transmitted to others.

Coding and Documentation for Oral Mucositis (ICD-11 DA01.11)

Accurate documentation and coding are essential for patient care and billing. Oral mucositis is classified under the ICD-11 code DA01.11. This specific code is used for noninfectious erosive or ulcerative disorders of the oral mucosa, encompassing oral mucositis. When documenting, healthcare professionals should detail the presence of inflammation, ulceration, bleeding, and any associated symptoms like pain or difficulty eating. This condition may be referred to by clinical synonyms such as oral ulcerative mucositis or oropharyngeal mucositis. Proper coding ensures that the condition is accurately represented for medical records, statistical purposes, and reimbursement.

Recognising the Signs of Oral Mucositis

The presentation of oral mucositis can vary in severity but commonly includes:

• A burning sensation or pain in the mouth.
• Redness and swelling of the oral mucosa and gums.
• Development of ulcers or sores within the mouth, which may appear as white or yellowish patches.
• Dry mouth (xerostomia) and increased thickness of saliva.
• Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia), talking, or eating.
• Bleeding from the affected areas.
• A white mucous coating on the oral tissues.