Histometric study of leukoplakia, lichen planus and carcinoma in situ of oral mucosa.

Leukoplakia, lichen planus and carcinoma in situ of human oral mucosa were analysed histometrically by light microscopy. Leukoplakia lesions showed a greater total nuclear density than lichen planus lesions. They had a similar basal nuclear density to carcinomas in situ. The total and basal nuclear areas were notably greater in carcinomas in situ, indicating the presence of larger nuclei in comparison to those of other lesions. We believe it to be possible to make a differential diagnosis based on numerical variables.