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Verruciform epidermodysplasia Lewandowsky-Lutz: causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment
Last reviewed: 07.07.2025
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Causes and pathogenesis of Lewandowsky-Lutz epidermodysplasia verruciformis. The 3rd and 5th types of human papillomavirus (HPV-3 and HPV-5) play an important role in the development of the disease. Transformation of Lewandowsky-Lutz epidermodysplasia verruciformis into squamous cell carcinoma or Bowen's disease is possible. There is evidence of the important role of hereditary factors.
Symptoms. There are simple and dysplastic variants of the disease. In the dysplastic type of the disease caused by HPV-5, clinical manifestations begin early. Skin manifestations are present from birth or appear in early childhood. The rashes are often located on exposed areas of the body and resemble flat warts. On the back of the hands, they are similar to common warts. In the case of malignant transformation, there is increased growth of warty elements and their fusion with each other. Ulceration and exophytic growth are possible.
Histopathology: Changes are similar to those seen in flat warts.
Differential diagnosis. The disease must be distinguished from flat warts based on the results of histological examination.
Treatment. Prescribe retinoids, vitamin A, immunomodulators, antiviral drugs externally - keratolytic ointments, local retinoids.
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