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Keywords:
Leukoedema, premalignancy, smoking
Abstract
Leukoedema is a variant of oral mucosa which mimics premalignant lesion more so when there is associated smoking habit. We report a case of leukoedema which had a strong smoking habit.
Introduction
Leukoedema is the normal anatomic variant of the oral mucosa which has clinical appearance similar to potentially malignant white lesions such as leukoplakia and lichen planus. Other lesions which closely mimic leukoedema are white sponge nevus and cheek bite. Its association with smoking habit is unclear. The present case of leukoedema discussed here has strong smoking habit association.
Case Report
A 28-year-old male patient complains of grayish-white patch on the left and right buccal mucosae. The patient gave a history of smoking six cigarettes per day for 6 years. The patch was noticed accidentally while brushing teeth. The general physical examination was non-contributory and the lesion was asymptomatic. On examination, the lesion is grayish-white in color with irregular borders which present at the level of occlusal plane in both the right and left buccal mucosae extending to retromolar trigone area [Figure 1]. Lesion was non-scrapable and persisted after stretching the mucosa. Based on the clinical examination and prevalent smoking habit, provisional diagnosis of leukoplakia was given. Biopsy of the lesion was performed to confirm the diagnosis.
Histopathology
Histopathological examination reveals hyperparakeratosis and acanthosis of surface epithelium. Cells of the spinous layer show intracellular edema. Cells appear pale...