Hairy leukoplakia

Hairy leukoplakia is a white patch on the side of the tongue with a corrugated or hairy appearance.

Hairy leukoplakia is seen in severe defects of immunity, particularly in HIV infection. The cause of this condition is an opportunistic infection by the Epstein-Barr virus. Oral hairy leukoplakia is not associated with any malignant potential.

The condition does not cause any other symptoms and does not require any treatment.

If treatment is required, acyclovir is used.

Although the vast majority of cases are found in immunosuppressed patients, in 1999, the first immunocompetent patient was found with the condition.