Virus-associated dysplasia (bowenoid papulosis?) of the oral cavity

We are presenting a case of multifocal, virus-associated dysplasia of the oral cavity. We believe this case represents bowenoid papulosis, which usually is limited to the genital region. The patient, a 21-year-old white man, had recently completed therapy for Hodgkin's disease. An oral examination revealed multiple red 3 to 6 mm macules scattered over the oral mucosa, involving the buccal and labial mucosa, palate, and gingiva. The favored clinical diagnosis was candidiasis. Histologically, the biopsy specimen showed severe epithelial dysplasia. Three additional oral biopsies of different sites were performed and revealed similar histology. Immunohistochemical stains for human papillomavirus were done, and two of four lesions stained positively. Transmission electron microscopy revealed intranuclear viral particles consistent with human papillomavirus. Further questioning and examination of the patient revealed that he had lesions of the penis that were clinically and histologically bowenoid papulosis. In addition, he admitted to oral-genital sex during the period of therapy for Hodgkin's disease. This is the first reported case of oral bowenoid papulosis, and it supports a viral cause for this disease process.