Almost all true erythroplakias exhibit a microscopic picture of epithelial dysplasia, carcinoma in situ, or invasive squamous cell carcinoma. Erythroplakia is a disease of adult men and is usually asymptomatic. The floor of the mouth, tongue, and palatal mucosa are common sites of involvement. Subsequently, ulceration usually develops with fibrinous exudate forming a yellowish surface membrane. Pain, burning, and various degrees of discomfort are usually observed clinically.
Clinical history is usually helpful in determining the source of the injury.
Its occurrence has increased because of the prevalent use of antibiotics, which alter the normal inhibitory oral bacterial flora. The oral lesions of candidiasis may exhibit many different forms one of which is a red or erythematous area. These areas may be quite variable in size and are more common in men than women. This term is strictly a clinical term and carries no histologic connotation.