Etiology • Infection of mucosal epithelium by members of the human
papillomavirus group—usually HPV 2, 4, 6, or 11
Clinical Presentation • Papular to nodular and exophytic appearance • Surface texture is cauliflower-like or verruciform in nature • Perioral skin lesions may be brownish. • Oral mucosal lesions are usually white to pink. • May be pedunculated or broad based • Intraoral sites of predilection include the lips, palate, and
attached gingiva. • Multiple oral lesions may be evident in immunocompromised
patients.
papillomavirus group—usually HPV 2, 4, 6, or 11
Clinical Presentation • Papular to nodular and exophytic appearance • Surface texture is cauliflower-like or verruciform in nature • Perioral skin lesions may be brownish. • Oral mucosal lesions are usually white to pink. • May be pedunculated or broad based • Intraoral sites of predilection include the lips, palate, and
attached gingiva. • Multiple oral lesions may be evident in immunocompromised
patients.
Microscopic Findings • Surface hyperkeratosis • Granulosis • Koilocytosis • Acquired immunodeficiency syndrome–associated oral warts
may appear dysplastic microscopically.
Diagnosis • Clinical appearance • Microscopic findings • Immunohistochemical demonstration of HPV common antigen
Differential Diagnosis • Focal epithelial hyperplasia • Keratoacanthoma • Papillary squamous carcinoma • Squamous papilloma • Condyloma acuminatum
Treatment • Excision
• Laser surgery • Cryosurgery • Electrosurgery
Prognosis • Excellent in immunocompetent host • Recurrence not uncommon