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Leukoplakia

White patches which develop on the mucous membranes of the mouth as a result of chronic irritation are known as leukoplakia. It is also known as smoker's keratosis.

Target Group

This disease mostly affects the elderly and it is more common in men than in women.

Type of Disease

The earliest patches are faintly translucent and later they become slightly elevated and have a granular texture. In some cases these patches progress to thickened white lesions indicating an ulcer formation or an infection. Leukoplakia is mostly painless but these patches may become sensitive to spicy foods or to touch. Some people develop an unusual type of the disorder called hairy leukoplakia.

Symptoms

The main symptoms of leukoplakia are white or grey sores on the insides of cheeks or tongue. Over a period of time these patches acquire a thick, elevated and rough texture. Painless and fuzzy patches on the tongue are the symptoms of hairy leukoplakia. The lesions which are red in color are known as erythroplakia and have more chances of developing into cancerous lesions.

Affected Areas

The lesions of leukoplakia usually develop on the tongue, insides of the cheek and gums. These patches may also develop on the female external genital area.

Causes

The main cause of leukoplakia is the use of tobacco. Excessive consumption of alcohol, chronic irritation, candidasis, endocrine disorders, viral infection, deficiency of vitamin A and D are the other causes of these patches.

Risk to Others

Consumption of tobacco and alcohol increases the risk of getting leukoplakia. Since men drink and smoke more than women, they are more likely to suffer from this disorder.

Risk to Sufferer

If the irritating factors causing leukoplakia are removed then it does not cause any permanent damage to the tissues but the presence of an infection can cause complications. These lesions can become cancerous. Hairy leukoplakia may progress to an HIV infection.

Treatment

The main cause of irritation should be removed. Smoking should be stopped immediately. All dental problems should be corrected including ill fitting dentures and rough teeth. If the patches show any kind of malignancy then they can be removed using a cryoprobe, scalpel or laser. Retinoids may be used but they have side effects. Antioxidants like beta carotene are also prescribed for these white patches.

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