Many are not familiar with such a concept as leukoplakia. What it is? This is a disease in which lesions of the mucous membranes and varying severity of keratinization of the epithelium are observed. Leukoplakia belongs to the group of precancerous diseases. This pathology can be affected by the mucous membrane of the corners of the mouth, lower lip, cheeks, tongue, vagina, clitoris, cervix, in rare cases, the glans penis and anus.
Leukoplakia: causes of the disease
The main reason for the development of pathology is external factors: mechanical, thermal, chemical lesions of the mucosa.
A special risk group includes smokers in whom the disease can affect the red border of the lips. This is explained by the constant exposure to harmful substances that are contained in tobacco smoke.
Leukoplakia can provoke stomatitis, chronic cystitis, an insufficient content of vitamin A. The hereditary predisposition is also not in the last place.
Leukoplakia - what is it and how is it manifested?
At first, the mucous membrane may become covered with small, slightly pronounced, inflamed areas. Then they become keratinized, characteristic white spots form. This type has a simple leukoplakia.
Over time, verrucous leukoplakia may develop, which is characterized by thickening of the spots. They rise above the surface of the mucosa and take the form of warts.
The disease can take an ulcerative form, in which erosion and painful cracks develop.
Signs of malignant degeneration are erosion or compaction in areas of leukoplakia.
As a rule, it will be difficult for an experienced specialist to diagnose a disease such as leukoplakia. What is it and what treatment is needed, the doctor will tell. In addition to examination, colposcopy, histological and cytological studies are performed .
Disease treatment
Any form and localization of leukoplakia involves complex therapy. First of all, treatment should be aimed at eliminating the factors that provoked this pathology.
It is necessary to stop smoking and make up for the lack of vitamin A. In addition, treatment should include the elimination of inflammatory processes and possible diseases of the digestive system.
The necessary removal of the affected areas is performed using a laser. Liquid nitrogen in this case, as a rule, is not used, as this can leave scars on the mucosa.
If signs of malignant transformation are detected, surgery will be required followed by x-ray therapy.
Timely and adequate treatment eliminates leukoplakia. However, relapses are not excluded. Therefore, it is recommended that in the future be sure to be observed by a doctor.
In this article, you learned about a disease such as leukoplakia: what it is, symptoms, causes and principles of treatment. Do not miss important changes in your body and regularly undergo a physical examination by specialists. Take care of yourself and be healthy!