Dictionary of Cancer Terms
View in Spanish: Leucoplasia
Leukoplakia (LOO-koh-PLAY-kee-uh)
An abnormal patch of white tissue that forms on mucous membranes in the mouth and other areas of the body. It may become cancer. Tobacco (smoking and chewing) and alcohol may increase the risk of leukoplakia in the mouth.
Source: National Cancer Institute Dictionary of Cancer Terms, available at www.cancer.gov/dictionary.