Response of Bowenoid Papulosis to Combination Treatment of Oral Isotretinoin and Topical 1% 5-Fluorouracil

Abstract

Bowenoid papulosis (BP) is a rare benign disease which can have spontaneous regression but can sometimes turn malignant.1 It is characterised by solitary or multiple verruca-like papules or plaques usually present on genitalia having a close histological resemblance to Bowen's disease and a predilection for sexually active young adults.2 It affects all races equally and has almost same male to female ratio. There are an estimated 5 cases per 100000 women. The exact prevalence is unknown.3 We hereby present a case report of bowenoid papulosis. Bowenoid papulosis is an uncommon form of intraepithelial neoplasia. It is caused by human papilloma virus (HPV) infection and clinically resembles viral wart while histologically resembling in situ squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). We hereby report a case of an adult male with multiple verrucous lesions on penis and scrotum. The histopathology showed features of bowenoid papulosis. The patient was treated with oral isotretinoin and topical 1 % 5 - fluorouracil following which the lesions reduced remarkably in the span of 3 weeks.