Leukoplakia

Precancerous patches, or lesions, inside the MOUTH. The patches are light-colored and most commonly form on the tongue and insides of the cheeks. Irritation to these tissues over time, such as from all forms of tobacco use and poorly fitting dentures or dental bridges, causes leukoplakia to develop. In a type of leukoplakia specific to people with HIV or AIDS, hairy leukoplakia, the patches look like white fuzz. Hairy leukoplakia often is one of the earliest signs of HIV INFECTION. Leukoplakia may also affect the VULVA in women. Biopsy to examine the cells of the patches confirms the diagnosis. In some people, removing the source of the irritation causes the leukoplakia to go away. Often doctors prefer to remove the lesions surgically, which generally is an office procedure with local ANESTHESIA. When the irritation continues, or in the presence of HIV/AIDS, leukoplakia may return.