• Ekarat Phattarataratip D.D.S.

This article presents proliferative verrucous leukoplakia (PVL), a distinct form of oral leukoplakia
which exhibits aggressive behavior due to its high rates of recurrence and malignant transformation.
It is a disease of unknown origin. The prevalence and distribution of this lesion are different from
those of other forms of oral leukoplakia, and its clinical-pathologic appearance is varied, depending on
the stage of development of the lesion. PVL is resistant to most kinds of therapy; therefore, the control
of this disease is difficult, especially in the late course of disease in which multiple lesions usually
occur. The early diagnosis of this lesion is necessary. Thus, the clinicians should recognize and be
familiar with the expression of this disease.

(CU Dent J. 2005;28:59-68)