Photodynamic Therapy Using Intense Pulse Light to Treat an HIV Patient With Perianal Squamous Cell Carcinoma: A Case Report

Anogenital warts are considered one of the most common sexually transmitted infections caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). One of the primary considerations with HPV is the virus’s high rate to develop into squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). SCC is one of the leading causes of skin cancer with a variety of treatment options. The gold standard of treatment for SCC is surgical excision. Complications may arise for those that are considered immunocompromised, or lack of efficacy may be taken into consideration for nonsurgical approaches. Herein, we suggest prompt diagnosis and treatment with photodynamic therapy (PDT) of HPV lesions to prevent disease progression and reoccurrence. The patient is a 54-year-old male nonsmoker with a past medical history of squamous cell carcinoma and HIV and presented with a perianal rash. Additionally, he confirmed associated symptoms of itchiness, irritation, and pain. At the time of his appointment, his CD4 count was 121 cells/µL, and he stated he was compliant with his antiretroviral therapy. Based on history and physical examination, the patient was empirically treated with oral fluconazole and topical nystatin-triamcinolone for two weeks. At follow-up, symptomatology worsened, and a biopsy was performed. Squamous cell carcinoma in situ was confirmed histologically. A secondary bacterial skin infection developed at the biopsy site. At this point, PDT was recommended due to compromised tissue and further risk of infection. At present, a gold standard of care for HPV infection does not exist. Prompt diagnosis and treatment of these lesions are important to recognize due to the high risk of the development of squamous cell carcinoma. Complications of secondary bacterial infections can arise with current treatment for squamous cell carcinoma, particularly in the immunocompromised. Non-surgical approaches for HPV have been less than desirable with higher recurrence rates of HPV lesions. Herein, we suggest the consideration of PDT treatment for HPV and SCC.