Clinical Management Update of Oral Leukoplakia: A Review From the American Head and Neck Society Cancer Prevention Service

Abstract

Background: Oral potentially malignant disorders (OPMDs) occur in up to 4%-5% of the population, of which oral leukoplakia (OL) is the most common subtype. Predicting high-risk OL remains a challenge. Early diagnosis and effective treatment are thought to be of paramount importance to improve outcomes. Methods: We searched PubMed and Clinicaltrials.gov data for updates in the clinical management of OL from 2015 to current. Results: Recent publication of large cohorts of patients with OL aids in counseling patients regarding risk of malignant transformation. Management for OL includes surveillance, excision, and laser surgery, as well as local and systemic approaches to chemoprevention. Several new entities show promise regarding candidate biomarkers, chemoprevention agents, and diagnostic adjuncts, though all require further validation. Conclusion: This update serves to further inform clinical management of OL and provide impetus for future investigations.