A common oral health problem in people with weakened immune systems is oral hairy leukoplakia. This condition can be triggered by viruses that target the immune system, like the Epstein-Barr virus or HIV.
Oral hairy leukoplakia can be an indicator of worsening overall health and should be checked out by a dentist as soon as possible.
To get find out if there are oral health concerns related to a chronic illness or to diagnose any problems you might have schedule an appointment with Trident General Dentistry.
Oral Hairy Leukoplakia Pathology
Oral hairy leukoplakia is characterized by white, fluffy, hairy-looking patches along the side of the tongue. These patches are caused by a buildup of skin cells in response to poor immune health. The disease gets its name from the “hairy” appearance of these tongue patches.
Patients with HIV can contract oral hairy leukoplakia when exposed to the Epstein-Barr virus. The symptoms of this condition usually show up within two to three weeks of exposure. It can be a warning sign of HIV in patients who do not know they have been infected.
Oral hairy leukoplakia does not usually cause problematic symptoms itself. Because it is a sign of an underlying immune problem, however, it is important to seek medical treatment. Your age, medical history, overall health, and symptoms will determine the best course of action.
Oral Hairy Leukoplakia vs. Oral Thrush
Oral hairy leukoplakia is triggered by viral infections, while oral thrush is a condition caused by fungus buildup in your mouth. Oral thrush is treatable with antifungal medications and is not an inherently dangerous medical problem.
Location of Lesions
One of the main differences between the two conditions is that oral hairy leukoplakia occurs mostly on the tongue. Oral thrush lesions are located on the gums, inside of the cheeks, and on the tongue. Oral thrush will go away with antifungal treatment, whereas oral hairy leukoplakia will not respond to this type of treatment.
Texture of Lesions
The “hairy” appearance of oral hairy leukoplakia is another key difference between it and oral thrush. Oral thrush has a more rippled texture without minuscule “hairs.” The white spots caused by oral thrush often have a wavy, cottage-cheese like texture and can appear on the gums as well as the tongue.
Underlying Causes
Oral hairy leukoplakia is caused by underlying immunodeficiencies, not fungus. This means that it is rarely treatable except with surgical removal of the lesions. Most dentists do not pursue surgery for this condition. Oral hairy leukoplakia is an indicator that you need to be seen by a medical doctor to check your immune health.
Oral Hairy Leukoplakia Treatment Options
Most cases of oral hairy leukoplakia do not need specialized treatment. In severe cases, an oral surgeon may remove some of the lesions to make the mouth more comfortable for the patient. However, the best form of treatment for oral hairy leukoplakia is direct treatment for the immune health problems it is caused by.
Get Evaluated for Oral Hairy Leukoplakia
If you suspect you have oral hairy leukoplakia, it is best to be seen by an experienced dentist who can evaluate your symptoms. At Trident General Dentistry in Charleston, SC, we provide compassionate, skilled dental care for all of our patients.
We urge you to book an appointment with us to check out your symptoms and make sure you get proper health treatment.