Can local application of imiquimod cream be an alternative mode of therapy for patients with high-grade intraepithelial lesions of the vagina?

Abstract

The aim of the present study was to assess the local application of imiquimod cream 5% as an alternative mode of therapy for high-grade vaginal intraepithelial neoplasia (VAIN 2/3). Positive human papillomavirus (HPV) patients with multifocal high-grade VAIN (2/3) not involving the vaginal vault in hysterectomized patients took part in this study. The treatment consisted of vaginal application of the cream under colposcopic guidance. Following management, biopsies were obtained from the previously recorded lesions. p53 expression was recorded prior and after therapy. Seven patients with VAIN 2/3 took part in this study. Six patients (86%) were positive for high-risk HPV type while three (43%) women who were positive for p53 nuclei prior to therapy were found to be negative following treatment. After treatment, 86% of the patients were found to have either HPV infection or low-grade VAIN. During follow-up, two patients (28.5%) were managed by vaginectomy, one for persistent and one for recurrent high-grade VAIN. Currently, from the five patients that are followed, three have simple HPV infection and two, VAIN 1. Imiquimod cream 5% might represent an alternative although not permanent method of management in young, HPV-positive women with multifocal high-grade lesions of the vagina (VAIN 2/3).