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Leukoplakia

Alternative Names: Hairy leukoplakia; Smoker's keratosis Symptoms: The primary symptom of leukoplakia is a skin lesion with the following characteristics: Location Usually on the tongue May be on the inside of the cheeks In females, occasionally on the genitals Color Usually white or gray May be red (called erythroplakia) Texture Thick Slightly raised Hardened surface Text Continues Below The symptoms of hairy leukoplakia are painless, fuzzy, white patches on the tongue. Signs and tests: The typical white patch of leukoplakia develops slowly, over weeks to months. The lesion may eventually become rough in texture, and may become sensitive to touch, heat, spicy foods, or other irritation. A biopsy of the lesion confirms the diagnosis. An examination of the biopsy specimen may find changes that indicate oral cancer.

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