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Leukoplakia refers to a white patch of mucosa in the oral cavity that cannot be pathologically linked to any other disease
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Leukoplakia is a pre-malignant condition occurs as an irreversible patch that is persistent and adherent to the oral mucosa
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It can be of various types like speckled and nodular. High risk potential is seen in forms like erosions, ulcerations and hard, indurated lesions
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This lesion is usually painless and non-tender, and eighty percent of such patches usually occur after the age of forty years
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Common causes for leukoplakia include smoking and drinking alcohol, which must be curbed as soon as possible
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A sharp tooth that constantly hurts your oral mucosa can also lead to pre-malignant conditions like leukoplakia
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A bacterial infection that usually spreads by sexual contact, called syphilis, can also lead to oral problems
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People who have low immunity, and have multiple deficiencies are also more likely to develop malignancies
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Consuming spicy foods, chewing areca nut, tobacco or slaked lime are also more likely to have issues in the oral cavity
Image: Canva
Regular follow up, cessation of smoking and excision of the lesion must be done to prevent further malignant changes