Causes and risk factors
Although the exact cause of leukoplakia is not known, several factors have been identified which increase the risk of developing this condition.
Substance that irritate the lining of the mouth such as chewing tobacco, smoking tobacco and heavy use of alcohol are major risk factors for leukoplakia. Other risk factors include infection with HPV (human papilloma virus) and Candida infection of the mouth.
Clinical presentation
Leukoplakia presents as a painless, white patch which may be one or more in number. It may be present on the tongue, lips, gums or other parts of the oral cavity. The patch is usually raised and is persistent. It cannot be scraped off.
Hairy leukoplakia is a specialized form of leukoplakia that occurs in persons with HIV/AIDS or other immune-compromised conditions. It is caused by the Epstein-Barr virus and appears as fuzzy, white patches.
Leukoplakia can sometimes progress to oral cancer.
Investigations
Leukoplakia can be diagnosed on the basis of examination of the mouth and the patient’s history.
A biopsy may be carried out to detect malignancy.
Treatment
The patient is advised to strictly stop smoking and restrict the intake of alcohol. There is no role of medications for treating leukoplakia per se, but drugs can be prescribed for underlying fungal or viral infections such as Candida or Epstein Barr.
The leukoplakia patch must be removed surgically in order to reduce the chances of developing malignancy. This procedure can be performed using a scalpel or a laser.
Recent updates
Research is underway to determine newer and better tools to detect the risk of malignant transformation in patients of leukoplakia.
