Leukoplakia

What can be done to prevent the condition?

A person should avoid the things that cause irritation, such as smoking or excessive alcohol intake. This can prevent many cases of leukoplakia.

What are the long-term effects of the condition?

The primary concern with leukoplakia is that it may represent a cancer, which occurs in about 5% of cases. Leukoplakia can also turn into cancer at a later time, which may occur in up to 1 out of every 5 cases.

What are the risks to others?

Leukoplakia generally poses no risks to others. In rare cases, leukoplakia may indicate an underlying infection that may be contagious.