Leukoplakia
Pronunciation: loo-koh-PLAY-kee-ah
White plaque on oral mucosa that cannot be rubbed off and has potential for malignant transformation.
Full Definition
Leukoplakia is a clinical term describing white or grayish patches on oral mucosa that cannot be characterized as any other definable lesion and cannot be removed by wiping. These lesions represent a potentially malignant disorder with varying degrees of dysplasia on histopathological examination. Common locations include the lateral tongue, floor of mouth, and buccal mucosa. Risk factors include tobacco use, alcohol consumption, and chronic irritation. Management includes elimination of risk factors, biopsy for histopathological diagnosis, and surgical excision or laser ablation depending on the degree of dysplasia.
Usage
Usage note: Always requires histopathological diagnosis to determine malignant potential.
In Context
- "The lateral tongue leukoplakia showed moderate dysplasia on histopathological examination." — pathology report
- "Laser excision of the leukoplakia was performed with adequate safety margins." — operative report