Hi Marjorie,
Leukoplakia, as I understand it, is an abnormal condition characterized by white or gray spots or patches on mucous membranes, especially of the mouth and vulva. Smoking is one of the known factors that can cause lekoplakia. "Hairy leukplakia" is a much less common form and apparently is seen only in people with HIV.

Before I was diagnosed with SCC, I had both oral lichen planus and leukoplakia. I saw an oral pathologist every year and he biopsied any suspicious looking tissue. It was for this reason that my SCC was diagnosed at stage I.

In some percentage of cases, these two conditions can turn malignant. However, you should consider yourself fortunate that your ENT has picked up on the condition so early and it can now be carefully monitored. Good luck, Sheldon