Leukoplakia

Well-defined, white or gray, non-scrapable plaques on the mucous membranes, most commonly involving the oral cavity, representing abnormal epithelial keratinization or hyperplasia due to chronic mucosal irritation. Although usually benign, some lesions have premalignant potential.

Causes

• Tobacco: smoking, chewing, snuff

• Mechanical causes

  • Improper dental fillings

  • Poorly fitted dentures

  • Chronic friction from sharp or broken teeth

  • Chronic cheek or lip biting

• Alcohol consumption

• Infectious causes

  • Epstein–Barr virus: Particularly oral hairy leukoplakia

  • Human papillomavirus (less common)

• Other causes

  • Idiopathic epithelial hyperkeratosis

  • Nutritional deficiencies

  • Immunosuppression