Condyloma acuminatum mimicking cervical cancer in a pregnant woman and treatment with cryotherapy: A case report

Abstract

Rationale: Condyloma acuminata and anogenital warts are protruding papillomatous lesions caused by human papillomavirus. In pregnant women, condyloma acuminata over the cervical region may grow rapidly, mimicking cervical cancer. Patient concerns: A pregnant woman at 14 weeks of gestation with condyloma acuminatum mimicking cervical cancer was referred to our hospital for further management. Diagnosis: Condyloma acuminata. Interventions: Tumor biopsy was performed twice, and the pathology confirmed condyloma acuminatum. Immunohistochemistry revealed focal positivity for p16 and Ki-67. Cryotherapy was performed and regular follow-up was performed at 2-week intervals. A small residual condyloma acuminata was found and treated with cryotherapy. Outcome: During the follow-up period, no recurrence of condyloma acuminata was noted. She delivered a baby at 37 weeks of gestation via cesarean section, without complications. Lessons: Condyloma acuminata of the cervix may grow faster during pregnancy, mimicking cervical cancer. Multiple factors must be considered when treating condyloma acuminata during pregnancy. Cryotherapy is proposed as a 1st-line treatment in all trimesters because of its safety, convenience, and cost-effectiveness. Serial follow-up at 2-week intervals to observe post-cryotherapy conditions is recommended.