Epidermodysplasia Verruciformis : Treatment

Comments:
Treatment of Epidermodysplasia Verruciformis (EV): There is no permanent cure for EV. Once the lesions form, they can be treated with cryotherapy, topical imiquimod and 5-FU, systemic retinoids, interferon alpha, and photodynamic therapy.

Surgical excision is the treatment of choice for squamous cell carcinoma. Radiation therapy is contraindicated as it increases the risk for metastases. Overall prognosis is favorable as skin cancers appear gradually and do not metastasize. Preventive measures such as avoiding sun exposure and the use of sun block/sun screen are important for proper management.

The image shows typical histologic features of EV. There is acanthosis, hyperkeratosis, and hypergranulosis. Keratinocytes in the upper layers of epidermis show enlarged nuclei and voluminous cytoplasm with bluish-gray pallor.