Attention all doctors?

Question

I was told last week by a doctor that I have Leukoplakia. She did not tell me anything else except to see a specialist she referred me to. Someone tell me what this means? I have it in both cheeks and on the base of my tongue. Within a couple of weeks it has now spred to my lips?? Someone please tell me something!!

Answer 1

Leukoplakia is a white or gray patch that develops on the tongue or the inside of the cheek. It is the mouth's reaction to chronic irritation of the mucous membranes of the mouth. Leukoplakia patches can also develop on the female genital area; however, the cause of this is unknown.

The growth can occur at any time in your life, but it is most common in the elderly.

"Hairy" leukoplakia of the mouth is an unusual form of leukoplakia that is seen only in people who are infected with HIV, have AIDS, or AIDS-related complex. It consists of fuzzy, hence the name "hairy," white patches on the tongue and less frequently elsewhere in the mouth. It may resemble thrush, an infection caused by the fungus Candida which, in adults, usually occurs if your immune system is not working properly, and may be one of the first signs of infection with the HIV virus.

Answer 2

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Answer 3

leukoplakia means white patch.
go to the specialist.
quit smoking ASAP.

Answer 4

Next time you're given a diagnosis, please make certain you understand what it means to you. The white patches are precancerous and you were probably referred to a Head & Neck surgeon. As soon as you get the referral, make the appointment for the consultation...and remember to ask questions!. Do not put it off, my friend.

Answer 5

http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/leukoplakia/DS00458

at the bottom of the article you can click through to all the different pages and get to signs and symptoms and treatments.... check it out...

Answer 6

Here's some reading material until you see the specialist.

Answer 7

They are pre-cancerous mouth ulcers.
http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/001046.htm