leukoplakia Hear it!

leukoplakia Definition

leuko·pla·kia (lo̵̅o̅′kō plā′kē ə, lo̵̅o̅′kə-)

noun

a disease, sometimes precancerous, characterized by thick, white patches covering the tongue, gums, etc.

leukoplakia Usage Examples

Converse of object

  • treat: Although retinoids do seem to help with treating leukoplakia, they can cause serious side effects.

Adjective modifier

  • hairy: Hairy leukoplakia involving the lateral border of the tongue in a patient with AIDS.