Successful application of aminolevulinic acid/photodynamic therapy in the treatment of condyloma acuminatum in a young child

Abstract

BackgroundCondyloma acuminatum is a benign proliferative lesion of the genitalia and perianal region caused by human papillomavirus infection, which is rare in children. Traditional treatments include topical medications, CO2 laser therapy, cryotherapy, and surgical resection, which are often associated with pain, scarring, and recurrence. In recent years, aminolevulinic acid/photodynamic therapy has been applied as a new method for treating condyloma acuminatum in adults. However, its application in young children is limited. We herein report a case of condyloma acuminatum treated by aminolevulinic acid/photodynamic therapy in a young boy. Case reportThe patient was a 2-year-old boy who presented with a 10-day history of warty masses on his glans penis. Condyloma acuminatum was diagnosed based on skin lesions and histological findings. Aminolevulinic acid/photodynamic therapy was selected as the treatment method after obtaining informed consent from his guardians. We performed five rounds with a treatment interval of 7 days and achieved a complete disappearance of the skin lesions without chapping, flushing, or scarring. There was no recurrence during the 6-month follow-up period. ConclusionPhotodynamic therapy can be used as an alternative treatment for condyloma acuminatum in young children. More case studies are needed to confirm the value of this treatment.