Which condition is characterized by a whitish plaque on the oral mucosa and can degenerate into SCC?

Leukoplakia is characterized by the presence of a whitish plaque on the oral mucosa, which can be an important clinical indicator in the evaluation of potential precursors to squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). The lesions associated with leukoplakia can result from chronic irritation or other factors, and though the majority of cases are benign, there is a risk that some lesions can undergo malignant transformation. This potential for degeneration into SCC is why leukoplakia is closely monitored by healthcare providers.

In contrast, conditions like Bowen's disease represent an intraepithelial neoplasm, which is distinctly different in terms of histology and presentation. Lentigo maligna, primarily a form of melanoma in situ associated with sun exposure, and plantar maligna, a less common term often referring to melanoma on the soles of the feet, do not feature the whitish plaques typical of leukoplakia. Understanding these distinctions is crucial in the clinical assessment of oral lesions to ensure appropriate management and surveillance for malignancy.