Proliferative verrucous leukoplakia: Three cases and literature review

Background. - The aim of this study was to collect epidemiological, aetiopathogenic, clinical, histological and therapeutic data concerning proliferative verrucous leucoplakia (PVL) and to report three new cases. Patients and methods. - A literature review performed using the Medline database enabled us to collate 39 studies involving 607 cases. Three new cases were added. Results. - PVL is a rare disease characterized by extensive and multifocal oral leucoplakic lesions. Its histological pattern depends on the stage of the disease: hyperkeratosis, verrucous hyperplasia, verrucous carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma. The aetiopathogenesis of PVL is poorly understood and there is no clear consensus concerning therapy. Malignant transformation occurs in over 50% of cases. Discussion. - Diagnosis of PVL is difficult because of the presenting signs, which can be mistaken for those of other diseases. Management may be complicated and long-term follow-up is essential. (C) 2015 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.