Malignant transformation of oral leukoplakia to squamous cell carcinoma

ABSTRACT

Oral leukoplakia is a potentially malignant lesion found more in the middle-aged and elderly, with an estimated global prevalence of 2.60%. Most oral squamous cell carcinomas develop on the background of oral leukoplakia. The risk of malignant transformation increases with the clinical type of leukoplakia, affected sites, immunosuppressive states of affected patients, alcohol and tobacco consumption, human papilloma virus infection, and chewing betel leaf and areca nut. Regular monitoring of patients with oral leukoplakia is very important for early detection of any mucosal and dysplastic change. This will aid early intervention and improve patient's survival.