ORAL LEUKOPLAKIA AS A POTENTIALLY MALIGNANT ORAL DISORDER: CLINICAL ASPECTS, DIAGNOSIS, AND CLINICAL MANAGEMENT

Abstract

Oral leukoplakia is considered one of the main oral potentially malignant disorders, with clinical relevance due to the risk of malignant transformation, and this study is aimed at analyzing the clinical aspects, diagnosis, and management of this condition. The research problem is: how should the dental surgeon conduct the clinical diagnosis and establish the management approach for oral leukoplakia as an oral potentially malignant disorder? The general objective is to analyze the main clinical characteristics of oral leukoplakia, presenting the diagnostic protocols and the clinical management recommended for this lesion. The specific objectives include: describing the characteristic clinical manifestations of leukoplakia in the oral mucosa; identifying the risk factors associated with the development and progression of this disorder; reviewing the clinical and complementary diagnostic methods used to differentiate oral leukoplakia from benign alterations of the oral mucosa; and presenting the clinical management protocols, including follow-up, biopsy, and specialized referral when necessary. The methodology adopted is bibliographic and documentary in nature, with a qualitative approach. This study is expected to contribute to clinical dental practice with evidence-based information, reinforcing the importance of early detection and adequate management of this lesion and of oral cancer prevention, through a more precise and standardized clinical approach, favoring the prognosis and quality of life of patients.