Erythroplakia

A well-demarcated, flat, velvety red lesion of the oral mucosa, not attributable to traumatic, vascular, or inflammatory causes, representing an oral potentially malignant disorder with a high risk of severe dysplasia or carcinoma in situ.

Causes

• Tobacco smoking

• Alcohol consumption

• Persistent mechanical irritation: Poorly fitting dental appliances

• Nutritional deficiency: Vitamins A/B/C deficiency

• Viral infection (HPV)

• Genetic predisposition