#HPV - Advices on genital viral warts (condyloma acuminata).

What are genital warts?

It is a sexually transmitted infection located in the genital/anal area. It  is caused by an infection with the Human Papillomavirus (HPV). Warts located on the hands, feet and fingers are not sexually transmitted and are caused by other subtypes of HPV than the ones causing genital warts.

How are genital warts transmited?

• Unprotected sexual intercourse with an infected individual.
• Mother to child transmission during normal delivery (through the birth canal).
• Self inoculation from the hands and fingers is also possible.

What are the signs and symptoms of genital warts?

The lesions appear as fleshy masses on the skin, which can be big or small, single or multiple. They can be slightly itchy.

In women, the lesions tend to be located in the cervix, vagina or vulva. In men, the lesions affect the penis and urethra. In both males and females, the lesions can be present in the anal and perianal areas.

If not treated, the warts persist and grow slowly. During pregnancy, the lesions can grow faster.

Are genital warts dangerous?

Certain types of genital warts can change into cancers (malignant change). Untreated lesions can be transmitted to other sexual partners.

How are genital warts diagnosed?

These lesions have a characteristic clinical appearance. Warts in the cervix and vagina have to be demonstrated by a gynecologic examination with the speculum. Blood tests are not useful in the diagnosis of this condition.

How are genital warts treated?

1. Chemical agents such as podophyllin, podophyllotoxin, silver nitrate and trichloroacetic acid;
2. Liquid nitrogen;
3. Imiquimod cream;
4. Surgery with lasers, electrosurgery or scalpel excision.

Some kinds of treatment can be combined; repeated treatments may be necessary.

Inform your doctor if you are pregnant (podophyllin can't be used as it can cause fetal anomalies). Do not self-medicate. Women should consult a gynecologist to ascertain the usefulness of regular cervical swabs (Papanicolaou) to screen for cervical cancer.

For a safer sexual attitude, use condoms (male or female available) for each sexual intercourse. Do not consume alcohol before or during the sex act as it may impair conscience and judgement.