Leukoplakia vs Erythroplasia
How to tell the difference — key features compared side by side.
Feature
Leukoplakia
Erythroplasia
Category
Pre-cancerous
Pre-cancerous
Key feature
Persistent thick white patches in the mouth that cannot be scraped off. 3-17% risk of oral cancer.
Bright red velvety plaque in the mouth. Over 50% harbor cancer at diagnosis - the most dangerous oral precancer.
Risk factors
Tobacco use - smoking and smokeless; Heavy alcohol; Betel nut chewing
Tobacco use; Heavy alcohol (especially with tobacco); Age 50-70
Action needed
Any white mouth patch persisting more than two weeks
Any persistent red mouth patch lasting more than two weeks - URGENT
Leukoplakia
Leukoplakia presents as persistent white patches on oral mucous membranes - gums, inner cheeks, floor of mouth, or tongue. The patches cannot be rubbed off (distinguishing from thrush). Tobacco use is the leading cause.
Read full guide →Erythroplasia
Erythroplasia appears as a bright red, velvety, well-defined patch on oral mucous membranes. Unlike leukoplakia's white patches, erythroplasia is red - and far more dangerous.
Read full guide →Does yours look more like leukoplakia?
Quick self-check
Does this look like leukoplakia? Answer 2 questions.
Is there a persistent white patch inside your mouth?
Do you use tobacco products?
Still not sure?
Our full ABCDE checker evaluates 5 clinical criteria dermatologists use.
Full ABCDE check →