Recurrent condyloma acuminatum in women over age 40: association with immunosuppression and malignant disease

Sixteen women aged greater than or equal to 40 years were studied within a total population of 77 women with recalcitrant condyloma acuminatum. Six of the 16 women (38%) were found to have coincident malignant disease (p less than 0.001). Three of these had lymphoma (non-Hodgkin's), two had squamous cell cancer of the vulva or vagina, and one had breast carcinoma. Two of the three patients with lymphoma had recurrent genital condyloma diagnosed before the coexistent lymphoproliferative disorder was discovered. In all, 11 of 16 patients had dysplasia and neoplasia. Seven of the women had other medical conditions associated with immunosuppression. We conclude that the presence of recurrent condyloma acuminatum in women greater than or equal to 40 years of age should lead to examination for the presence of immunosuppression and its underlying cause. A high index of suspicion for concomitant genital squamous cell neoplasia and lymphoproliferative disorders should be realized. The factors relating age, recurrent condyloma, immunosuppression, and malignant disease are discussed.