Genital Warts

Genital warts (sometimes called condylomata acuminata or venereal warts) are the most easily recognized sign of genital HPV infection. Genital Warts are flesh-colored or gray growths found in the genital area and anal region in both men and women. But other common types of HPV that cause warts on the hands and the soles of the feet do not cause genital warts. There are over 70 different strains of HPV but only a few of these affect the genitals.

Genital warts are part of the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) family. Genital warts may be as small as 1 to 2 millimeters in diameter - smaller than the width of a ballpoint pen refill - or may multiply into large clusters. There are cases where genital warts have been found on the thigh and groin. Most do not develop visible warts; the infection may show up on a cervical smear. This is known as subclinical infection. It is therefore extremely important to treat genital warts as soon as you are aware of their presence. There are many kinds of HPV. Not all of them cause genital warts. Most people who become infected with HPV will not have any symptoms and will clear the infection on their own.

Causes of Genital Warts

Here are the list of the possible causes of Genital Warts :

• About 90% of genital warts are caused by 2 specific types of the virus (6 and 11) and are the least likely to have cancer-causing potential.
• Stress and other viral infections (such as HIV or herpes) at the same time.
• Genital warts are spread by contact with an infected partner and are very contagious.
• You can spread the virus even if you do not have any symptoms of infection or any visible warts.

Symptoms of Genital Warts

Some sign and symptoms related to Genital Warts are as follows :

• The size may range from less than 1 millimeter across to several square centimeters when many warts join together.
• There may be a history of previous transmitted diseases.
• Genital warts may feel like gritty, hard bumps on the skin of the genitals or around the anus before they are seen.
• Cauliflower-like appearing growths around the anus or genitals.
• Increased dampness or moisture in the area of the growths.

Treatment of Genital Warts

Here is list of the methods for treating Genital Warts :

• Electrodesiccation: This technique uses an electric current to destroy the warts.
• You need to take the necessary precautions to prevent trauma to the area, which can result in bleeding.
• Because the warts themselves are infectious, avoid touching them. Do not pick or squeeze the warts.
• Genital warts can be treated by painting them with a special liquid. This is done in a GUM clinic.
• Podophyllum resin (Pod-Ben-25, Podofin) - Topically applied by a doctor.
• Trichloroacetic acid - Topically applied, response is often incomplete and recurrence is higher, may cause pain and burning.