Hairy Leukoplakia
A white, corrugated lesion occurring on the lateral borders of the tongue, caused by Epstein–Barr virus replication and strongly associated with immunosuppression.
Full Definition
Oral hairy leukoplakia (OHL) is a white, non-removable lesion with a corrugated or 'hairy' surface that occurs predominantly on the lateral tongue and is pathognomonic of Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) infection in the context of immunosuppression, most notably HIV/AIDS. Unlike the potentially malignant disorder leukoplakia, OHL carries no risk of malignant transformation and is considered a reactive rather than dysplastic process. Its presence in a patient may prompt clinicians to investigate underlying immune status. Editors should note that 'hairy leukoplakia' is a specific diagnostic term and must not be used as a colloquial descriptor for any rough-surfaced white lesion; the modifier 'oral' or 'hairy' must always accompany the term to distinguish it from conventional leukoplakia. The eponymous connection to Epstein–Barr should be capitalised accordingly.
Usage
Usage note: Always qualify with 'hairy' or 'oral hairy' to distinguish from conventional leukoplakia. The virus name 'Epstein–Barr' uses an en-dash, not a hyphen.
In Context
- "Oral hairy leukoplakia on the lateral tongue was the presenting sign that led to subsequent HIV testing." — Oral medicine case report
- "Unlike leukoplakia, hairy leukoplakia does not carry a risk of malignant transformation." — Undergraduate oral pathology textbook