Proliferative verrucous leukoplakia: an elusive disorder

Area of Science:

• Oral pathology
• Oncology
• Dermatology

Background:

• Proliferative Verrucous Leukoplakia (PVL) is a distinct, multifocal oral leukoplakia.
• PVL often presents as innocuous white lesions, easily overlooked.
• Limited knowledge exists regarding PVL's pathobiology and etiopathogenesis.

Purpose of the Study:

• Increase awareness of clinical aspects of PVL among oral health care providers.
• Highlight the high malignant transformation potential of PVL.
• Emphasize the need for early recognition and proper management of PVL.

Main Methods:

• Review of case reports.
• Analysis of case series.
• Synthesis of existing literature.

Main Results:

• PVL commonly affects females over 62 years old.
• No specific treatment has proven effective in halting PVL progression.
• PVL has a high recurrence potential and tendency to progress to squamous cell carcinoma.

Conclusions:

• Oral health care providers must recognize PVL as a unique, rare form of leukoplakia.
• Suspicion is warranted for all recurrent and multifocal oral white lesions due to PVL's malignant potential.
• Early detection and management are critical for patients with PVL.