Information on Leukoplakia

Leukoplakia is a common disease of the mouth. Leukoplakia is potentially pre-cancerous disease of the mouth that involves the formation of white spots on the mucous membranes of the tongue and inside of the mouth. Leukoplakia patches can also develop on the female genital area. It is twice more common in men than women.  In general, leukoplakia isn't painful, but the patches may be sensitive when you touch them or eat spicy foods.

The patch may have developed gradually over weeks to months and be wide, slightly raised, and may eventually take on a hardened and rough texture. The growth can occur at any time in your life, but it is most common in the elderly. People with compromised immune systems sometimes grow an unusual form of the disorder called hairy leukoplakia. People with leukoplakia have a slightly increased risk of mouth cancer. The cause of leukoplakia is result from chronic irritation. Tobacco, either smoked or chewed, is the main culprit. More men than women develop leukoplakia, mainly because men are more likely to both drink alcohol and smoke.

On the other hand, women with leukoplakia tend to seem more cancerous changes in their mouth tissues than male do. The usual treatment for leukoplakia is to eliminate the source of the irritation. Systemic medications include antiviral drugs such as valacyclovir and famciclovir, which stop the Epstein-Barr virus from replicating but don't eliminate it from your body. Taking beta-carotene orally seems to induce remission in patients with oral leukoplakia. Topical medications include podophyllum resin solution and tretinoin (retinoic acid). In addition, the patches frequently return several weeks after being treated.

Retinoic acid, a vitamin A imitative, seems to inhibit the replication of the Epstein-Barr virus. Cryosurgery and laser removals are also sometimes used. Cryosurgery is when tissue is removed by freezing, rather than cutting, it out. It is not painful and can frequently be done without anesthetic. Excellent oral hygiene is important to prevent recurrence of leukoplakia. Eating plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables that are rich in antioxidants may reduce the risk of leukoplakia. Regular dental treatment will ensure that any rough teeth. Smoking or other tobacco use should be stopped. Avoid or limit alcohol consumption.