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Ask the Experts about Oral Health and HIV

 

Shape of Hairy Leukoplakia
Jun 11, 2000

Hello, Dr. Reznik, I have a question regarding the *shape* of HIV-associated hairy leukoplakia lesions. If one has long, thin, white streaks bilaterally on the side of the tongue is this due to trauma (i.e. tongue chewer) or could it also be due to HIV? Is HIV related leukoplakia always bulky and amorphous? Thanks, F.S.T.

Response from Dr. Reznik

Dear F.S.T.:

Oral hairy leukoplakia usually does not present as a long, thin, white bilateral line on the lateral borders of the tongue, but rather as white, corrugated (rough) areas that can appear anywhere on the lateral border of the tongue.

If you believe to be at risk for HIV infection, please take an HIV diagnostic test.

Hope this helps!

DR



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