Leukoplakia

Leukoplakia is a condition that causes the growth of thick, white patches (known as plaques) to develop on:

• the gums,
• the bottom of the mouth,
• the inside of the cheek, and
• occasionally on the tongue.

The causes of leukoplakia are unknown but the use of tobacco, particularly chewing tobacco, is known to put you at risk. Heavy alcohol consumption may cause it.

How common is leukoplakia?

It is estimated that one in every 100 people will develop leukoplakia at some point in their life, but rates of leukoplakia are higher in parts of the world where the use of chewing tobacco and related products are widespread, such as India and Taiwan.

Men are five times more likely to develop leukoplakia than women and most cases of leukoplakia develop in adults who are 40 years of age or over.

Prognosis

Leukoplakia usually causes no symptoms and the condition should not affect your quality of life. However, in a small number of cases, the plaques caused by leukoplakia turn cancerous, often many years or sometimes decades after they first appear.

It is estimated that approximately 1% of people with leukoplakia will develop mouth cancer (oral cancer) later in life. However, the risk of mouth cancer is thought to be much higher in people with leukoplakia who continue to be heavy smokers or to chew tobacco. One study has estimated that for heavy tobacco users, the amount of people with a history of leukoplakia who then go on to develop mouth cancer may be as high as 14%.

From the limited evidence available, it is believed that the most effective way to prevent leukoplakia leading to oral cancer in later life is to stop using tobacco and drink alcohol in moderation.

Hairy leukoplakia

Hairy leukoplakia is a more aggressive form of leukoplakia that mainly affects people with a weakened immune system, particularly those who have HIV.

Hairy leukoplakia can cause symptoms of mild pain and changes in taste. it can also cause the tongue to take on a white and lumpy appearance. Hairy leukoplakia can usually be treated using anti-viral medication.

Glossary

Tissues

Body tissue is made up of groups of cells that perform a specific job, such as protecting the body against infection, producing movement or storing fat.