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Buschke-Lowenstein tumor: therapeutic options including systemic chemotherapy
A K Ilkay1, G W Chodak, N J Vogelzang
1Division of Urology (Department of Surgery), University of Chicago Pritzker School of Medicine, Illinois.
Urology
|November 1, 1993
Summary
Systemic chemotherapy with bleomycin, cisplatin, methotrexate, and leucovorin offers a new treatment option for advanced verrucous carcinoma of the penis (Buschke-Lowenstein tumor), achieving a complete response in one patient. Surgical excision remains effective for localized cases.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Urologic Oncology
- Dermatopathology
Background:
- Verrucous carcinoma of the penis, also known as Buschke-Lowenstein tumor, is a rare, locally aggressive variant of squamous cell carcinoma.
- It typically has a low metastatic potential but can cause extensive local tissue destruction, especially after prolonged neglect.
Observation:
- Two patients with locally advanced verrucous carcinoma of the penis presented after significant delays in seeking medical care.
- Both cases exhibited aggressive local growth and extensive tissue destruction.
Findings:
- One patient, refractory to multiple surgical excisions, achieved a complete pathologic response with systemic chemotherapy (bleomycin, cisplatin, methotrexate, leucovorin).
- This represents the first reported successful use of systemic chemotherapy for verrucous carcinoma of the penis.
- The second patient achieved local disease control with surgical excision alone.
Implications:
- Systemic chemotherapy should be considered for advanced or refractory cases of verrucous carcinoma of the penis.
- Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent extensive local destruction and improve outcomes.
- This study expands treatment options for this rare penile malignancy.