Disease of leukoplakia - what is it?

Many are not familiar with such a concept as leukoplakia. What it is? This is a disease in which there are lesions of the mucous membranes and varying degrees of expression of the corneal epithelium. Leukoplakia belongs to the group of premalignant 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 the anus.

Leukoplakia: causes of the disease

The main cause of the development of pathology are external factors: mechanical, thermal, chemical mucosal lesions.

In a special group of risk are smoking people who have a disease that can hit the red border of the lips. This is explained by the constant exposure to harmful substances that are contained in tobacco smoke.

To provoke leukoplakia can stomatitis, chronic cystitis, insufficient content in the body of vitamin A. Also not in the last place is the hereditary predisposition.

Leukoplakia - what is it and how is it manifested?

Initially, the mucosa can become covered with small, not very pronounced inflamed patches. Then they become cornified, characteristic white spots are formed. This type has a simple leukoplakia.

Over time, may develop leukoplakia, which is characterized by condensation of spots. They rise above the surface of the mucosa and take the form of warts.

The disease can take a peptic ulcer, in which erosions and painful cracks develop.

Signs of malignant degeneration are erosions or densities in the areas of leukoplakia.

As a rule, an experienced specialist will be able to diagostat such a disease as leukoplakia. What is it and what treatment is needed, the doctor will tell. In addition to the examination, colposcopy, histological and cytological investigations are performed .

Treatment of the disease

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 give up smoking and fill the deficiency 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 done with a laser. Liquid nitrogen in this case, as a rule, is not applied, since it can leave scars on the mucosa.

If signs of malignant transformation are found, surgery with subsequent x-ray therapy will be required.

Timely and adequate treatment allows to eliminate leukoplakia. However, relapses are not excluded. Therefore it is recommended to continue to be observed at the doctor in the future.

From this article, you learned about a disease such as leukoplakia: what it is, the symptoms, causes and principles of treatment. Do not miss important changes in your body and regularly take a physical examination from specialists. Take care of yourself and be well!