Final answer:
Leukoplakia is a precancerous lesion, meaning it has the potential to progress to cancer if left untreated. Although it is not cancerous on its own, it should be addressed to prevent further complications.
Step-by-step explanation:
Leukoplakia is a condition characterized by white patches or plaques that form on the mucous membranes of the mouth, tongue, and other areas of the body. These patches are caused by the excessive growth of cells and are associated with chronic irritation, such as tobacco smoking. While leukoplakia itself is not considered cancerous, it is considered a precancerous lesion or a potentially premalignant lesion.
Precancerous lesions, also known as non-invasive tumors, have the potential to progress to cancer if left untreated. They are at higher risk of developing into invasive tumors, which are cancerous and can invade surrounding tissues. The progression from precancerous lesions to cancerous tumors involves stages of atypia, dysplasia, and carcinoma in situ, with increasing potential for cancer.
Therefore, while leukoplakia is not cancerous on its own, it is considered a premalignant lesion because it has the potential to progress to cancer if not addressed.