Condylomata acuminata in the pediatric population
A. S. Boyd
Department of Dermatology, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, School of Medicine, Lubbock 79430.
The incidence of condylomata acuminata infection has shown a steady
increase for adults and children in recent years. With the discovery that
the viral agents of this disease are potentially neoplastic, a disorder
that was once considered a nuisance is now taking on new-found importance
and concern. Furthermore, the knowledge that these lesions are often
sexually transmitted and the ever-increasing concern over child abuse have
combined to make the recognition and treatment of this disease in the
pediatric population of even greater significance. Depending on location,
podophyllum resin (podophyllin) is the initial therapy of choice. Available
studies indicate a cure rate ranging from 22% to 98% depending on location
of the warts, frequency of treatment, patient compliance, and freshness of
the podophyllum resin preparation. Cure rates of 91% to 97% have been
reported with cryotherapy and laser photocoagulation. Eradication of the
viral agent and long-term follow-up are important.
