Bowenoid papulosis: a recent entity in sexually transmitted diseases

Bowenoid papulosis is a recent phenomenon of multiple lesions with a histology of carcinoma in situ appearing on the genitals of young men. We report 6 male patients with this condition presenting with warty and/or lichen planus like lesions on the genitals. The histology shows carcinoma in situ. Three (50%) showed spontaneous regression, and the rest had persistence and recurrence. Repeat biopsy of one recurrent lesion showed a verruca. The evidence for a possible viral aetiology will be discussed. Long term studies are required to assess any oncogenic potential. As it is thought to be presently a viral infection with epidermal atypia, effective conservative management is sufficient.