Which type of leukoplakia is most likely to have a higher risk of malignancy?

Non-homogeneous leukoplakia presents a higher risk of malignancy compared to the other types. This variation can exhibit irregular, mixed color patterns, and often has a granular or nodular surface. The complexity of its features often indicates a greater degree of dysplasia, which can lead to malignant transformations. In clinical practice, non-homogeneous leukoplakia is viewed with a greater degree of caution and is frequently biopsied to ascertain the presence of cancerous changes.

On the other hand, homogeneous leukoplakia tends to have a more uniform appearance and is generally considered to have a lower associated risk for malignancy. Candidal leukoplakia, which is related to a fungal infection, and frictional keratosis, resulting from irritation, usually do not present the same level of concern for cancer development as non-homogeneous leukoplakia does. These conditions typically resolve with appropriate treatment, which further differentiates their risk profiles from the more aggressive nature observed in non-homogeneous leukoplakia.