TREATMENT OF LEUKOPATHY OF THE TONGUE WITH HIGH-POWER DIODE LASER: CASE REPORT
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.36557/2674-8169.2026v8n1p186-202Keywords:
Leucoplasia Oral. Cirurgia a Laser. Patologia BucalAbstract
Introduction: Oral leukoplakia is a whitish lesion of the mucosa, potentially malignant in nature, commonly associated with smoking and chronic exposure to local irritants. Although its exact etiology remains multifactorial, factors such as excessive alcohol consumption, poor oral hygiene, and repetitive mechanical trauma also contribute to its development. Early detection and appropriate treatment are fundamental to preventing progression to oral carcinoma. Objective: To present a clinical case report of leukoplakia in the tongue treated with a high-power diode laser, highlighting the benefits of this technology in a minimally invasive therapeutic approach. Case Report: A 52-year-old male patient, a chronic smoker, presented with an asymptomatic whitish lesion on the lateral border of the tongue. Clinical examination revealed a non-removable plaque with a homogeneous surface. After incisional biopsy confirming leukoplakia without dysplasia, complete excision using a high-power diode laser (980 nm) was chosen. The procedure was performed under local anesthesia, with minimal blood loss and without the need for sutures. The postoperative period was uneventful, with healing by secondary intention and without significant complications. The lesion removal was effective, and the six-month follow-up revealed no recurrence. Conclusion: The use of high-power diode laser proved to be an efficient, safe, and well-tolerated alternative in the treatment of lingual leukoplakia. In addition to promoting hemostasis and reducing postoperative discomfort, it contributes to better tissue healing. Thus, the laser represents a promising tool in the approach to potentially malignant lesions of the oral cavity
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Copyright (c) 2026 Daniel Barbosa Vieira, Murilo de Lorenzo, Lorena Araújo Andrade Paixão, Êmily Évelyn Bandeira Batista, Suellen Jamylly Maria Costa, Joyce Francine Gonçalves de Oliveira, Rafael Veloso Rebello, Kamilly Lopes de Oliveira, Arthur Lira Dias, Cristian Duane Pires
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