Local Hyperthermia Combined With Imiquimod Cleared Recalcitrant and Extensive Warts in a Patient With Systemic Lupus Erythematosus.

Abstract

Viral warts, a common dermatological condition caused by human papillomavirus infection (HPV) infection, present a particular challenge for systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients due to their compromised immunity, which increases the susceptibility to HPV infection and complicates treatment efforts. Imiquimod, an immunomodulatory agent, has demonstrated efficacy in managing warts. Furthermore, local hyperthermia, a non-invasive therapeutic modality, has demonstrated significant potential in the management of warts. We report the case of a SLE patient developed recalcitrant and extensive viral warts on limbs. We applied hyperthermia at 45 °C on a target lesion for 1 hour / day with imiquimod cream 3 times/week. All the lesions cleared in 8 months and there was no sign of recurrence.