Condylomatous lesions of the upper aerodigestive tract

Abstract

Condyloma acuminatum is one of four types of common human verrucous lesions that are of viral etiology. Also known as "moist wart," condyloma acuminatum is most often seen on the mucosal surfaces of the anogenital area. However, occurrences in the mucosal lined areas of the head and neck region are quite rare. Since 1901, 30 cases of condylomatous lesions have been reported in the upper aerodigestive tract, occurring mainly in the various regions of the oral cavity. Eighteen of the cases were confirmed by histopathologic documentation, while the remainder were anecdotal. We have recently encountered six new cases of condyloma acuminatum, verified by histologic examination. One occurred on the tongue, another in the tonsillar fossa, one in the hypopharynx and three on the vocal cords. We present these cases and review the previously reported cases. In addition, we will discuss the differential diagnosis of these lesions, and their importance to the practicing otolaryngologist.

Condyloma Acuminatum Presenting as a Base‐of‐Tongue Mass

“…Between 1978 and 1982, the reported incidence of condyloma in New York City increased by more than 200% 9 . Similar to anogenital condyloma, this entity occurs most frequently in young, sexually active men and less often in women 3 . It has been documented that patients with widespread anogenital condyloma who practice orogenital sex have a 50% incidence of histologically confirmed oral condyloma 4 .…”

“…Condyloma acuminatum, which is extremely common in the anogenital region, is rarely described in the oral cavity. Initially documented by Heidingsfeld in 1901, 1 oral condyloma has become an increasingly reported entity 2–6 . This may be related to the increase in sexual promiscuity and associated rise in sexually transmitted diseases (STDs).…”