What is a key feature of leukoplakia?

The key feature of leukoplakia is the presence of white patches in the mouth. These patches are often described as adherent and can appear on the tongue, inside of the cheeks, or on the floor of the mouth. Leukoplakia is a clinical term and signifies a potentially precancerous condition characterized by these white lesions.

The white patches arise due to a thickening of the keratin layer in the oral mucosa, often in response to chronic irritation. While leukoplakia itself is typically asymptomatic and may not cause pain, the development of these distinct white areas warrants further evaluation due to the associated risk of dysplasia or malignancy.

In contrast, features such as red spots on the tongue or painful ulcers are not characteristic of leukoplakia, as these may suggest other conditions like oral thrush or erosive lichen planus, while swollen gums typically indicate periodontal disease or gingivitis. Each of those conditions would have different clinical implications and management strategies compared to leukoplakia.