Buschke-Lowenstein Tumors: A Review and Proposed Classification System

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Oncology
• Infectious Diseases

Background:

• Buschke-Lowenstein (B-L) tumors, also known as giant condylomata, are rare anogenital lesions.
• These lesions are caused by human papillomavirus (HPV).
• Current literature lacks a standardized definition and contains misconceptions regarding B-L tumors.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the existing literature on Buschke-Lowenstein tumors.
• To establish a workable definition for B-L tumors.
• To clarify misconceptions about their mortality, malignancy rates, and relationship to verrucous carcinoma.

Main Methods:

• Comprehensive literature search of PubMed and Embase databases from 1925 to 2020.
• Evaluation of clinical data, including presentation and treatment from published reports.
• Analysis of definitions and case reports to address misconceptions.

Main Results:

• No accepted definition for B-L tumors was found; an inclusive definition is proposed.
• Contrary to common belief, B-L tumors do not exhibit high mortality or malignancy rates.
• B-L tumors are distinct from verrucous carcinoma, despite shared HPV etiology.

Conclusions:

• Buschke-Lowenstein tumors are HPV-associated anogenital lesions distinct from verrucous carcinoma.
• A proposed definition and grading system aim to aid future study and management.
• Further research is needed to clarify specific HPV type associations and optimal treatment strategies.