Oral Thrush vs. Leukoplakia
Thrush is a wipeable fungal infection caused by Candida; leukoplakia is a non-wipeable white patch that can be precancerous and requires biopsy.
Key Facts
- Thrush wipes off, often leaving a red base
- Leukoplakia does NOT wipe off
- Thrush is treatable with antifungals; leukoplakia needs biopsy
- Tobacco and alcohol are major leukoplakia risk factors
Oral Thrush
Pseudomembranous candidiasis presents as creamy white plaques on the tongue, palate, or cheeks that scrape off. Common in immunosuppressed patients, denture wearers, inhaled-steroid users, and infants.
Leukoplakia
Leukoplakia is a white plaque that cannot be scraped off and cannot be characterized as another disease. About 3–17% progress to oral squamous cell carcinoma.
Why the Distinction Matters
Thrush is benign and treatable in days. Leukoplakia may be the first sign of malignant transformation and requires biopsy.