Malignant transformation of a giant Buschke-Löwenstein tumor with: review of treatment options and case report

Abstract

Condylomata acuminata (genital warts, condylomata cuminata) are benign epithelial proliferations caused by infection with the human papillomavirus,  most frequently types 6 and 11. They occur mainly on the skin of the genital organs and around the anus and on the oral mucosa, usually as soft, papillomatous growths with a mild course and limited size. In rare cases, particulary in immunocompromised individuals, untreated condylomata may progress to giant condylomata, known as Buschke-Löwenstein tumors, which carry a potential risk of malignant transformation. 

We report a case of a 58-year-old patient in whom an ulcerated perianal skin lesion developed into an invasive squamous cell carcinoma infiltrating the dermis. Clinically, the lesion presented as a giant, cauliflower-like mass, necessitating the creation of sigmoid colostomy due to progressive bowel obstruction and tumor compression of the distal gastrointestinal tract. This decision was made prior to the planned palliative radiotherapy, the urgent implementation of which was justified by recurrent, intense bleeding from the tumor leading to the anemia and deterioration of the patient’s general condition.