Efficacy and Safety of Giant Condyloma Acuminatum with Monotherapy of Topical Traditional Chinese Medicine: Report of Eight Cases

Abstract

Background: Giant condyloma acuminatum (GCA), also called Buschke–Löwenstein tumor, presents as a verrucous infiltrating lesion and is caused by sexual transmission of human papilloma virus. The optimal treatment is controversial and there are no standard guidelines because of its rarity and frequent recurrence. It has a relatively high local recurrence rate. Objective: We here report eight patients (six men and two women) with GCA whose lesions were successfully treated topically with traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) preparations, paiteling. Methods and Materials: We administered topical TCM preparations to eight patients diagnosed with GCA who had refused surgery. The treatment process included three stages, their durations depending on the speed of resolution of the lesions and the results of visual inspection with acetic acid. Results: No significant complications occurred in any patient. The functional and esthetic outcomes were satisfactory. No recurrences were detected during follow-up. Conclusion: Topical treatment with TCM preparations may be a good alternative to surgery or other traditional methods for the treatment of GCA. This treatment has the advantages of being non-invasive, painless, and having a low risk of recurrence, and may be a useful adjunct to mainstream medical treatments.