Leukoplakias (white patches) & erythroplakias (red patches) are premalignant and may progress to elevated plaques that ulcerate.

• A. True
• B. False
• C. Not premalignant
• D. Only erythroplakias

Answer: (A)

Leukoplakia and erythroplakia are considered potentially malignant disorders of the oral mucosa, meaning they have real malignant potential even though they are not cancer yet. They can begin as flat patches—white for leukoplakia and red for erythroplakia—and over time may progress to elevated plaques as the dysplastic changes advance. If transformation progresses further, these lesions can ulcerate due to invasion of underlying tissues. The risk is heightened by factors like tobacco use, alcohol, betel quid, and HPV infection, and biopsy is used to assess for dysplasia or carcinoma. Because of this potential for progression, the statement is true.