What is a white patch in the mouth? A white patch is an area of thickening in the lining of the mouth (mucosa) and has a white appearance (also called leukoplakia). Why do you have white patches in mouth? It could be anything from a canker sore, thrush, or leukoplakia, etc. Identify your symptoms and get the best treatments early.

[] Leukoplakia generally refers to a firmly attached white patch on a which is associated with an increased risk of cancer. The edges of the lesion are typically abrupt and the lesion changes with time. Advanced forms may develop red patches. There are generally no other symptoms. It usually occurs within the, although sometimes mucosa in other parts of the,, or may be affected. The cause of leukoplakia is unknown. Risk factors for formation inside the mouth include smoking,, excessive, and use of.

It is a lesion, a tissue alteration in which is more likely to develop. The chance of cancer formation depends on the type, with between 3–15% of localized leukoplakia and 70–100% of proliferative leukoplakia developing into. Leukoplakia is a descriptive term that should only be applied after. Generally shows increased build up with or without, but is not diagnostic. Other conditions that can appear similar include,, and due to repeated minor.

The lesions from a yeast infection can typically be rubbed off while those of leukoplakia cannot. Whatsapp For Ios 6.1.6 on this page. Treatment recommendations depend on features of the lesion.

If abnormal cells are present or the lesion is small surgical removal is often recommended; otherwise close follow up at three to six month intervals may be sufficient. People are generally advised to stop smoking and limit the drinking of alcohol. In potentially half of cases leukoplakia will shrink with stopping smoking; however, if smoking is continued up to 66% of cases will become more white and thick. The percentage of people affected is estimated at 1–3%. Leukoplakia becomes more common with age, typically not occurring until after 30. Rates may be as high as 8% in men over the age of 70. Contents • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Definition [ ] The word leukoplakia means 'white patch', and is derived from the Greek words λευκός - 'white' and πλάξ - 'plate'.