Acquired epidermodysplasia verruciformis: a comprehensive review and a proposal for treatment.

BACKGROUND

Epidermodysplasia verruciformis (EV) is a rare genodermatosis characterized by immunologic abnormalities, disseminated human papilloma virus infection, and early development of skin cancers. Acquired forms have been rarely reported and usually occur with immunosuppression. The therapeutic management of the acquired forms is not standardized, and several therapies have been tried, with variable outcomes.

OBJECTIVES

To provide updated clinical and experimental information on the treatment of acquired EV.

METHODS

A Medline literature search was performed for relevant Medical Subject Heading terms, reviewing publications on strategies for management of acquired EV. We also report a case successfully treated using a combination of photodynamic therapy and oral retinoids.

CONCLUSION

Data from the literature show that a standardized approach to this condition is lacking; the combination treatment chosen in our case may be proposed because it led to an excellent clinical outcome and a long-lasting remission.

© 2013 by the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery, Inc. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc.