Leukoplakia is a white or gray patch that develops on the tongue the inside of the cheek, or on the floor of the mouth It is the s reaction to chronic irritation of the mucous membranes of the mouth. Leukoplakia patches can also develop on the female genital area; however, the cause of this is unknown.
Leukoplakia patches can occur at any time in your life, but it is most common in senior adults.
"Hairy" leukoplakia of the mouth is an unusual form of leukoplakia (caused by the Epstein-Barr virus) that is seen only in people who are infected with HIV, have AIDS, or AIDS-related complex. It consists of fuzzy, white patches on the tongue (hence, its name) and less frequently, elsewhere in the mouth. It may resemble Thrush an infection caused by the fungus Candida which, in adults, usually occurs if your immune system is not working properly. Thrush may be one of the first signs of infection with the HIV virus.
What Causes Leukoplakia?
Causes of leukoplakia can include:
- Irritation from rough teeth fillings, or crowns, or ill-fitting dentures that rub against your cheek or gum
- Chronic smokingor other tobacco use
- Sun exposure to the lips
- Oral cancer (although rare)
- HIV or AIDS
What Are the Symptoms of Leukoplakia?
The presence of white or gray colored patches on your tongue, gums, roof of your mouth, or the inside of the cheeks of your mouth may be a sign of leukoplakia. The patch may have developed slowly over weeks to months and be thick, slightly raised, and may eventually take on a hardened and rough texture. It usually is painless, but may be sensitive to touch, heat, spicy foods, or other irritation.
How Is Leukoplakia Diagnosed?
Your dentist may suspect leukoplakia upon examination; however, abiopsy will likely be taken to rule out other causes, such as oral cancer.During the biopsy, a small piece of tissue from the lesion will be removed to be examined in a lab. A numbing agent will be used so that you will not feel any pain.
What Is the Treatment for Leukoplakia?
Treatment for leukoplakia, if needed, involves removing the source of irritation. For example, if leukoplakia is caused by a rough tooth or an irregular surface on a denture or a filling, the tooth will be smoothed and dental appliances repaired. If leukoplakia is caused by smoking, you will be asked to minimize or stop smoking or using other tobacco products.
Leukoplakia is usually harmless, and lesions usually clear in a few weeks or months after the source of irritation is removed. If eliminating the source of irritation is ineffective in reducing leukoplakia, the lesion may need to be surgically removed. The lesion can be removed either by your general dentist or by an oral surgeon.
Hairy leukoplakia requires treatment with an antiviral medication.
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