ORAL LEUKOPATHY: THERAPEUTIC INTERVENTIONS AND CLINICAL MONITORING

Abstract

Oral leukoplakia (OL) is the most prevalent potentially malignant disorder of the oral cavity, with an estimated global prevalence of 3.41% and a significant risk of transformation into squamous cell carcinoma. This narrative review analyzes current therapeutic interventions and clinical monitoring strategies. Diagnosis is based on histopathological examination, aided by emerging technologies such as Narrow Band Imaging (NBI), biomarker analysis (podoplanin and DNA aneuploidy), and artificial intelligence. Therapeutic approaches range from conventional surgical excision, laser therapy (especially CO2 laser), and Photodynamic Therapy (PDT), the latter indicated for extensive or multiple lesions. Innovations in immunotherapy (Nivolumab) and topical agents (Imiquimod) have been explored, particularly for aggressive Proliferative Verrucous Leukoplakia (PVL). It is concluded that, despite the diversity of treatments, no modality guarantees total prevention of malignancy, making rigorous clinical surveillance and risk stratification the fundamental pillars of management.