Treatment of Focal Epithelial Hyperplasia with Topical Imiquimod: Report of Three Cases

Abstract

Focal epithelial hyperplasia (Heck disease) is a rare disorder caused by specific types of HPV. It mainly involves oral mucosa and children are affected more frequently. It may persist for years, producing a significant reduction in quality of life. Several treatment modalities such as surgical excision, laser ablation, cryotherapy, electrocauterization, topical, intralesional, systemic interferon, and systemic retinoic acid have been used with inconsistent results and many side effects. Here we report three children of Turkish origin with focal epithelial hyperplasia successfully treated with imiquimod 5% cream. No serious side effects were observed and recurrence did not occur during the 1-year follow-up period.