Leukoedema is the normal anatomic variant of the oral mucosa which has clinical appearance similar to potentially malignant white lesions such as leukoplakia and lichen planus. Other lesions which closely mimic leukoedema are white sponge nevus and cheek bite.
Leukoedema is a harmless white lesion of the oral cavity which mimics premalignant lesion more so when it is associated with smoking.
Signs and symptoms
There is a diffuse, gray-white, milky opalescent appearance of the mucosa which usually occurs bilaterally on the buccal mucosa. The surface of the area is folded, creating a wrinkled, white streaked lesion. Apart from the appearance, the lesion is entirely asymptomatic.
Causes
The cause is unknown, but it is thought to be caused by intracellular edema of the superficial epithelial cells coupled with retention of superficial parakeratin. Although leukoedema is thought to be a developmental condition, it may be more common and more pronounced in smokers, and becomes less noticeable when smoking is stopped. Smoking cannabis is known to be linked to this condition. It may also develop in areas subjected to repeat subclinical irritation, caused by low grade irritants such as spices, oral debris or tobacco.
Diagnosis
Clinically
Treatment
No treatment is required for leukoedema.
