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Updated: Sep 25, 2025

Author Spotlight: Dermatopathology and the Treatment of Sexually Transmitted Diseases
Published on: November 8, 2024
Topical cidofovir for benign human papillomavirus-associated skin lesions
Larry Napolitano1, Liesl Schroedl2, Alexander Kerman3
1Piedmont Plastic Surgery and Dermatology, Shelby, NC, USA.
Abstract:
Cidofovir is a broad-spectrum antiviral agent that has shown efficacy against skin lesions caused by human papillomavirus (HPV). We present a case of extensive verruca vulgaris lesions refractory to imiquimod that was responsive to topical cidofovir therapy, and analyze other case series in the literature of successful treatment of benign HPV-associated skin lesions with topical cidofovir. Topical cidofovir's favorable response rate and tolerability make it a useful treatment option for patients of differing ages and immune status who have nonmalignant HPV-associated skin lesions and desire topical therapy.
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