What Is Leukoplakia?
2. What Is the Cause of the Condition?
The exact cause of leukoplakia is unknown. However, researchers believe it is a response to an irritant, like rough teeth or tobacco. Many patients who suffer from the condition use tobacco products and drink a lot of alcohol, making the irritation more prevalent in older adults.
Another form of leukoplakia, known as oral hairy leukoplakia, results from the Epstein-Barr virus. Researchers believe it is an early indicator of HIV/AIDS. However, the appearance of this variation is not an immediate indicator of the disease, as it can appear in all people with weakened immune systems, such as bone marrow transplant patients.
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