National Board Dental Hygiene Examination (NBDHE) Dental Hygienist Practice Test

Hairy leukoplakia is indeed associated with the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), particularly in immunocompromised individuals, such as those with HIV/AIDS. This oral condition is characterized by white patches on the lateral borders of the tongue, which can resemble lesions but are actually thickened epithelial cells with a viral component. It is important to recognize that hairy leukoplakia serves as a clinical marker for HIV infection and indicates immune suppression, making its association with EBV particularly significant in dental hygiene practice. Other conditions listed, such as oral candidiasis, angular cheilitis, and glossitis, are not caused by the Epstein-Barr virus. Oral candidiasis results from a fungal infection, often linked to an imbalance in the microbial flora or immune deficiency. Angular cheilitis typically arises from irritation or fungal infection at the corners of the mouth, while glossitis, which involves inflammation of the tongue, can have various causes including nutritional deficiencies and allergic reactions.