leukoplakia /lo̅o̅′kōplā″kē·ə/ [Gk, leukos + plakos, plate] , a precancerous, slowly developing change in a mucous membrane characterized by thickened, white, firmly attached patches that are slightly raised and sharply circumscribed. They may occur on the genitals or in the oral cavity. Those appearing on the lips and buccal mucosa are usually associated with pipe smoking. Malignant potential is evaluated by microscopic study of biopsied tissue. Compare lichen planus. See also lichen sclerosis et atrophicus.
