Buschke-Löwenstein tumors: A series of 7 case reports.

Abstract

Giant condyloma acuminatum (GCA), or Buschke-Löwenstein tumor (BLT), represents an infrequent sexually transmitted disease (STD), caused by human papillomavirus (HPV), especially genotype 6 or 11. There are numerous risk factors for HPV, such as multiple sexual partners, homosexuality, prostitution, chronic genital infections, as well as the lack of proper hygiene. HPV infection is a field infection, where large areas of cells at a tissue surface are affected by the HPV virus; therefore, once the GCA is excised, treatment of the whole affected genital area needs to be undertaken. The treatment is classified into topical therapy (podophyllin, 5-FU, radiotherapy, topical photodynamic therapy), excisional therapy (CO2 laser, cryotherapy, electrotherapy, surgery) and immunotherapy (imiquimod). However, the ‘gold standard’ therapy is represented by wide surgical excision without grafting, since it is considered that healing per secundam is an improved approach, because there is no risk of recurrences on fibrotic tissue. A total of 7 cases of the BLT with comorbidities and particularities are presented and it is recommended that it be taken into consideration that the incidence of the disease is increasing, emphasizing the importance of an early diagnosis, as well as an adequate treatment.