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