leukoplakia

noun

leu·​ko·​pla·​kia ˌlü-kō-ˈplā-kē-ə 

: an abnormal condition in which thickened white patches of epithelium occur on the mucous membranes (as of the mouth or vulva)

also : a lesion or lesioned area of leukoplakia

leukoplakic

ˌlü-kō-ˈplā-kik 

adjective

Examples of leukoplakia in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Sometimes, even after removal, the leukoplakia can recur and will need to be removed again. —Lauren Krouse, Health.com, 21 Oct. 2021

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, from leuk- + Greek plak-, plax flat surface — more at fluke entry 2

First Known Use

circa 1888, in the meaning defined above

Medical Definition

leukoplakia

noun

leu·​ko·​pla·​kia

variants or chiefly British leucoplakia

ˌlü-kō-ˈplā-kē-ə 

: a condition commonly considered precancerous in which thickened white patches of epithelium occur on the mucous membranes especially of the mouth, vulva, and renal pelvis

also : a lesion or lesioned area of leukoplakia

leukoplakic adjective

or chiefly British leucoplakic

-ˈplā-kik