Affiliations: Center for Clinical Studies, University of Texas
Health Science Center, Houston, TX, USA | Department of Dermatology, University of Texas Health
Science Center, Houston, TX, USA
Note: [] Corresponding author: Stephen Tyring, MD, Center for Clinical
Studies, 6655 Travis, Suite 120, Houston, TX 77030, USA. Tel.: +1 713 528 8818
ext. 1211; Fax: +1 713 528 8848; E-mail: [email protected]
Abstract: Purpose of review: Epidermodysplasia verruciformis has been
addressed in depth in the recent literature despite its rarity. The disease is
characterized by a persistence in human papillomavirus infections and
development of cutaneous malignancies, usually happening more frequently and at
a younger age than in the general population. Because of the role of
immunodeficiency to viral antigens eventually leading to cancer, EV has become
a model for understanding a viral role in cutaneous oncogenesis. Susceptibility
loci for EV have been mapped and encoded protein functions are becoming better
understood. Discoveries of novel mutations and further study of EV-associated
HPV serotypes in lesional and nonlesional skin of affected patients and the
general population may help generate a cohesive theory regarding the true role
of a defective immune barrier in oncogenesis.
