Genital wart

Genital warts, also known as condylomata acuminata or venereal warts, are symptoms of a highly contagious sexually transmitted infection caused by certain strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV).

Small condylomata on testicles

Etiology

Genital warts are primarily caused by the HPV types 6 and 11, which account for about 90% of cases. These types of HPV are considered "low risk" strains, which means they are less likely to cause cervical cancer, but they can cause changes in the cells of the cervix.

Transmission

Foreskin retraction image series

HPV is primarily transmitted through direct skin-to-skin contact during vaginal, anal, or oral sex with an infected individual. The virus can also be transmitted from mother to baby during childbirth.

Clinical Presentation

Genital warts are typically soft and skin-colored, but they can appear darker with a rough or smooth surface. They can present as a single wart or as multiple warts in a cauliflower-like cluster. They commonly occur on the vulva, in or around the vagina or anus, on the cervix, and on the penis, scrotum, groin, or thigh.

Complications

While the types of HPV that cause genital warts do not usually cause cancer, an individual can be infected with different strains of HPV at the same time. High-risk strains, such as HPV types 16 and 18, can cause cervical and other genital cancers. Regular screening is essential, especially for women, as HPV can lead to cervical cancer if left untreated.

Treatment

While there is no cure for HPV, the symptoms can be managed. Several treatments are available for the warts themselves, including topical medications, cryotherapy, laser therapy, and surgery. It's important to note that even after treatment, the virus can remain in the body and warts may reappear.

Prevention

The best way to prevent genital warts is through safe sex practices and vaccination. The HPV vaccine is highly effective at preventing the HPV types most commonly linked to genital warts and cervical cancer.

References

• Giuliano AR, Lee JH, Fulp W, et al. (2011). "Incidence and clearance of genital human papillomavirus infection in men (HIM): a cohort study". Lancet. 377 (9769): 932–40. doi:10.1016/S0140-6736(10)62342-2.
• CDC (2021). "Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Vaccination: What Everyone Should Know". Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
• Saslow D, Solomon D, Lawson HW, et al. (2012). "American Cancer Society, American Society for Colposcopy and Cervical Pathology, and American Society for Clinical Pathology screening guidelines for the prevention and early detection of cervical cancer". American Journal of Clinical Pathology. 137 (4): 516–42. doi:10.1309/AJCPTGD94EVRSJCG.

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