Question 1

what is leukoplakia?

Accepted Answer

White patch: Leukoplakia is a medical term for a flat white lesion on the mucous membranes of the mouth (but possibly elsewhere also).  They are not easily scraped off.  They can arise from numerous sources, including irritation.  It is not a specific disease, but  an observable condition.  Sometimes they are thought of as "pre-cancerous" and so it is important to have a biopsy done.

Question 2

is leukoplakia lethal?

Accepted Answer

Not by itself: By itself leukoplakia is not lethal. In many cases it can lead to oral cancer which needs to be treated early and appropriately. Oral cancers can prove to be lethal down the road, especially if they recur or spread.

Question 3

is leukoplakia transmissible?

Accepted Answer

No: Leukoplakia is not transmissable.

Question 4

what are signs of leukoplakia?

Accepted Answer

White lesions: Leukoplakia arewhite lesions in the mouth and can be caused by different irritants.

Question 5

is leukoplakia deadly?

Accepted Answer

Not in and of itself: Leukoplakia is an overgrowth of the top layer of the skin or mucous membrane. Similar to a callous, it occurs due to chronic irritation, quite frequently found in smokers. It is called a "precancerous" lesion for it has been noted that some (not all) of these area will turn cancerous. I would strongly recommend an examination and possible biopsy if you haven't done so already. If you smoke, stop!

Question 6

can leukoplakia be a cancer?

Accepted Answer

Can be pre-cancerous: Leukoplakia is a thickening of the lining of the mouth tissues and is due to reaction from local irritation or inflammation and is common in tobacco users. It can be a pre-cancerous condition and over time can become cancerous in a significant number of cases (up to 15-20%). Checking with your doctor to see if a biopsy may be necessary is the next step.

Question 7

what is cervical leukoplakia?

Accepted Answer

Leukoplakia: I am not an MD but Leukoplakia is a characteristic of tissue (meaning white patch). What this from a Pap smear? If so they probably described the tissue found and send it off for biopsy. Maybe some MDs can chin in here? Ask you doctor if you are worried

Question 8

does leukoplakia always means hiv?

Accepted Answer

No.: Some people with leukoplakia have hiv, but many patients with leukoplakia do not have hiv.  Leukoplakia is not "specific for" HIV and can be seen in other clinical settings.  If you are concerned that you or someone that you know might have hiv, then please get tested for hiv.  Hope that this helps.

Question 9

how is leukoplakia similar to cancer?

Accepted Answer

Premalignant state: Leukoplakia is a premalignant condition. Its presence is indicative of an increased possibility of malignancy developing.

Question 10

how is leukoplakia related to cancer?

Accepted Answer

It can sometimes: be a precursor to cancer if chronic irritation of the tissue is allowed to exist. It should be checked visually on an annual basis and verified regularly with more definitive tests.

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