Leukoplakia

For most people, removing the source of irritation is important and often causes the lesion to disappear.^[1] For example, if tobacco use is thought to be the cause, stopping tobacco use usually clears the condition.^[2] Dental causes such as rough teeth or fillings should be treated as soon as possible.^[1] When this is not effective or if the lesions show early signs of cancer, treatment may include removing the patches.^[2] The lesion is usually removed in the health care provider's office using local anesthesia. Leukoplakia on the vulva is treated in the same way as oral lesions.^[1] Recurrences are common, so follow-up visits with a physician are recommended.^[2]

Leukoplakia usually does not cause complications or permanent damage.^[2][1] Sores often clear up a few weeks or months after the source of irritation is removed. Although most leukoplakia patches are benign (non-cancerous), a small percentage show early signs of cancer, and many cancers of the mouth occur next to areas of leukoplakia.^[2] Even after leukoplakia patches are removed, the risk of oral cancer remains higher than in the general population.^[2] Prognosis is better when leukoplakia is found and treated early.^[2]