Multinucleated Atypia of the Vulva: A Mimic of Human Papillomavirus Infection

Abstract

Abstract

Background:

An uncommon finding is the presence of multinucleated cells in the squamous epithelium of the vulva, unrelated to human papillomavirus (HPV) infection. Most likely a result of inflammation, these cells have been seen within the basal-to-middle layers of the squamous epithelium. This finding can be mistaken for evidence of HPV infection.

Case:

This article describes the case of a woman in her 30s who presented with chronic vulvar pruritus and whose condition remained unresponsive to multiple rounds of anticandidal therapy.

Results:

Vulvar biopsy showed multinucleated atypia in a setting of squamous-cell hyperplasia (lichen simplex chronicus).

Conclusions:

A pitfall to avoid is classifying these multinucleated cells as evidence of HPV infection. (J GYNECOL SURG 33:41)