CLINICAL AND HISTOPATHOLOGICAL DIAGNOSIS OF ORAL LEUKOPATHY: CRITERIA FOR EARLY IDENTIFICATION

Abstract

Oral leukoplakia (OL) is the most common potentially malignant disorder of the oral cavity, characterized by white plaques that cannot be removed by scraping or attributed to other pathologies. This narrative review analyzes the scientific evidence of the last five years on clinical and histopathological diagnostic criteria for early identification. The diagnosis is divided into provisional, based on the exclusion of local causes, and definitive, based on histopathological analysis, which remains the gold standard for grading epithelial dysplasia. The study highlights that non-homogeneous lesions located on the tongue and floor of the mouth have a higher risk of transformation into squamous cell carcinoma. Innovations such as molecular biomarkers and photodynamic treatments are also discussed. It concludes that continuous clinical surveillance and individualized assessment are fundamental, since surgical intervention does not completely eliminate the risk of recurrence, requiring rigorous longitudinal follow-up to preserve the patient's health.