Giant Condyloma Acuminata in Indonesian Females with SLE under Immunosuppressant and Steroid Therapy

The Pathogenesis of Giant Condyloma Acuminatum (Buschke-Lowenstein Tumor): An Overview

Giant condyloma acuminatum, also known as Buschke-Lowenstein tumor (BLT), is a rare disease of the anogenital region. BLT is considered a locally aggressive tumor of benign histological appearance, but with the potential for destructive growth and high recurrence rates. BLT development is strongly associated with infection with low-risk human papillomaviruses (HPVs), mostly HPV-6 and -11. Immunity to HPVs plays a crucial role in the natural control of various HPV-induced lesions. Large condyloma acuminata are frequently reported in patients with primary (e.g., DOCK8 or SPINK5 deficiencies) and secondary (e.g., AIDS, solid organ transplantation) immune defects. Individuals with extensive anogenital warts, including BLT in particular, should therefore be tested for inherited or acquired immunodeficiency. Research into the genetic basis of unexplained cases is warranted. An understanding of the etiology of BLT would lead to improvements in its management. This review focuses on the role of underlying HPV infections, and human genetic and immunological determinants of BLT.

Giant Condyloma Acuminata (Buschke-Lowenstein Tumor): Review of an Unusual Disease and Difficult to Manage

Giant condyloma acuminatum (GCA) or Buschke-Loewenstein tumor is a rare disease, with an estimated prevalence of 0.1%. It was initially described in 1896 by Buschke and later in 1925 by Buschke and Loewenstein. Classic condyloma acuminata (CCA) and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) were initially described as different entities. These three entities are currently considered to correspond to the same spectrum of different but not exclusive malignant transformations, associated with multiple risk factors such infection by human papilloma virus (HPV), immunodeficiencies, poor hygiene, multiple sexual partners, and chronic genital infections. HPV subtypes 6 and 11 are associated with 90% of GCA. It presents as a cauliflower-like tumor in the genital region with bad odor, bleeding, and local infection, differential diagnosis with multiple conditions should be considered, and sexually transmitted diseases should always be investigated. GCA has a higher rate of malignant transformation than CCA and tends to infiltrate adjacent soft tissues. The therapeutic approach is controversial but is considered that the resection with free edges is the gold standard and can be combined with adjuncts. The recurrence rate is high. Overall mortality is 21% and is associated with morbidity caused by recurrences. Imiquimod cream 5% has recently shown good results as monotherapy and in combination with ablative and surgical treatments. The quality of life is diminished in patients with this condition. In this review, we address the different aspects of this rare entity including the therapeutic approach.

Giant Vulvar Condylomata: Two Cases and a Review of the Literature

INTRODUCTION

Giant vulvar condyloma is usually associated with the HPV subtypes 6 and 11 and is characterized by excessive growth of verrucous lesions on the genitals and/or perianal region. It may be observed in sexually inactive as well as sexually active women. Immunosuppression plays an important role in the development of the disease.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We report two cases of giant vulvar condyloma together with the review of the literature.

RESULTS

One case was a 21-year old sexually inactive woman with a history of Type 1 Diabetes. Second case was a 20-year-old sexually active woman with a rapidly progressing disease and cervical dysplasia. Both cases were operated; all the condylomatous structures were resected with preservation of the anatomy and clitoral innervation and blood flow. Skin and subcuticular dehiscence was the only complication encountered in the first case.

CONCLUSION

Main treatment of giant vulvar condyloma is surgical resection with maintenance of the vulvar anatomy. Preservation of especially the clitoral innervation as much as possible is very important.