National Dental Assisting Examining Board (NDAEB) Practice Exam

Which oral lesion is often referred to as a precancerous condition in smokeless tobacco users?

1. Leukoplakia

2. Kaposi's Sarcoma

3. Canker sore

4. Oral thrush

The correct answer is: Leukoplakia

Leukoplakia is recognized as a precancerous condition particularly associated with the use of smokeless tobacco. This oral lesion presents as white patches or plaques on the oral mucosa that cannot be easily scraped off. The presence of leukoplakia is concerning because it can evolve into more serious conditions, including squamous cell carcinoma, especially in individuals with risk factors such as tobacco use. This condition is indicative of mucosal irritation and is often a direct response to the carcinogenic chemicals found in smokeless tobacco products. Regular examination and monitoring of leukoplakia are essential for early detection of potential malignant transformation. While other conditions listed, such as Kaposi's Sarcoma, can occur in the oral cavity, they are more associated with systemic diseases like HIV/AIDS rather than being directly linked to tobacco use. Canker sores are painful ulcers and are not classified as precancerous lesions, and oral thrush is a fungal infection that affects the mucosa, typically indicating an immunocompromised state but does not have a precancerous nature related to tobacco use.