Elevated amount of human papillomavirus 31 DNA in a squamous cell carcinoma developed from bowenoid papulosis

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Oncology
• Virology

Background:

• Bowenoid papulosis (BP) is a rare, benign condition often associated with human papillomavirus (HPV).
• Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is a common skin cancer that can arise from pre-existing skin lesions.
• Immunocompromised individuals are at higher risk for HPV-related malignancies.

Observation:

• A 50-year-old woman presented with asymptomatic genital macules and a nodule.
• Laboratory results indicated pancytopenia and a reduced CD4/CD8 ratio, suggesting cellular immunodeficiency.
• Histopathological examination confirmed bowenoid papulosis (BP) and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC).

Findings:

• Human papillomavirus type 31 (HPV-31) DNA was detected in both BP and SCC lesions.
• A significantly higher viral load of HPV-31 DNA was found in the SCC compared to the BP.
• The patient's decreased cellular immunity was a critical factor in the observed progression.

Implications:

• This case suggests that an elevated HPV-31 viral load may promote the development of SCC from BP.
• The findings underscore the importance of monitoring HPV-related lesions in immunocompromised patients.
• Further research is warranted to elucidate the precise mechanisms of HPV-31 oncogenesis in this context.