(eh-RITH-roh-PLAY-kee-uh)

An abnormal patch of red tissue that usually forms on the inside of the mouth, especially on the tongue, inside of the cheek, and under the tongue. The patch often bleeds easily if it is scraped. Erythroplakia is most commonly caused by smoking or chewing tobacco, but it may also be caused by heavy alcohol use or poorly fitting dentures that rub against the tissues in the mouth. Most erythroplakias are benign (not cancer), but some may be precancerous or a sign of cancer.