Successful treatment of multiple plantar warts complicated by systemic lupus erythematosus with ALA-PDT, a case report

Patients with immunocompromised conditions often have a higher prevalence of HPV infection induced skin warts, with recalcitrant nature to various options of treatment. Here, we diagnosed a case of multiple and coalized plantar warts complicated by Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) which persisted for years and refractory to conventional treatment. The warts were successfully cured by 5-aminolevulinic acid - Photodynamic therapy (ALA-PDT), which could provide a clinical treatment reference. Four rounds of ALA-PDT treatments were performed. 49 days after treatments, the lesions were basically removed, only a tiny amount of residue remained, and the skin almost returned to normal. After one year of follow-up, there was no recurrence and the skin is perfectly smooth and healthy now. ALA-PDT is a safe and effective method for patients who suffer from intractable multiple plantar warts complicated by SLE.