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What Is Condyloma (Genital Warts)?
Genital warts (condylomata acuminata) are caused by Human Papillomavirus (HPV) infection. They appear as small papules around the genitals, anus, and vulva, and may merge to form shapes resembling a cockscomb or cauliflower.
Route of Condyloma Infection
Genital Infection Caused by
Approximately 30 Types of HPV
Approximately 30 different types of HPV can cause genital infection. Most infections are temporary and suppressed by the normal human immune system, but there is always a possibility of reactivation or reinfection. Types 6 and 11 are associated with genital warts, while Types 16, 18, 31, and 45 are found in approximately 80% of cervical cancer cases. It primarily occurs in sexually active young people and is mainly transmitted through sexual contact, but can also be transmitted through non-sexual routes.
Symptoms of Condyloma
The incubation period of condyloma averages 3–4 months and can extend up to 8 months. There are cases where patients unknowingly transmit HPV to their loved ones without knowing they are infected.
The lesions present as slightly raised papules or cauliflower-shaped masses and may be latent on the skin of the penis, vulva, or other genital areas. Lesions generally appear in clusters but may rarely be scattered. Most infections occur at a young age, and over 80% resolve spontaneously within 18 months.
Diagnosis of Condyloma #1
Visual Examination & Acetic Acid Test
Diagnosis can be made immediately if the characteristic appearance is visible.
Genital warts are mostly identifiable by sight due to their distinctive shape. However, when visual identification is difficult, a 5% acetic acid test can be used — the lesion turns white, confirming the diagnosis.
Diagnosis of Condyloma #2
Urethroscopy
When genital warts develop at the urethral opening or inside the urethra, urethroscopy is recommended. When warts grow inside the urethra, symptoms such as hematuria, frequent urination, urgency, and urethral discharge may occur. In cases where differentiation from urethral cancer is difficult based on appearance alone, accurate diagnosis through biopsy is necessary.
Diagnosis of Condyloma #3
Nucleic Acid Amplification Test
(Multi-PCR)
Multi-PCR testing is performed for more accurate identification of various HPV types. Recently, HPV has been classified into 19 high-risk and 9 low-risk types, enabling differentiation in a single test with high accuracy. Additionally, test turnaround time has been reduced to approximately 6 hours.
Treatment of Condyloma
The goal of treatment is not to eradicate HPV, but rather to remove the external warts and improve symptoms and signs.
1. Topical Medication
Treatment involves applying medication or injecting it into the affected lesion to destroy the wart tissue. The treatment duration may be extended depending on the size and number of warts.
2. Surgical Excision
This is an effective treatment when warts are very large and few in number. It has the advantage of being able to perform a biopsy simultaneously when differentiation from other conditions is difficult.
3. Cryotherapy
A method of freezing and removing lesions using liquid nitrogen. This must be performed by an experienced specialist.
4. Electrocautery & Laser Removal
Capable of removing large or widespread warts. It has the advantages of no bleeding, low recurrence, and rapid treatment results.
Even after removing visible lesions, recurrence due to remaining virus is frequent. It is important to keep in mind that recurrence can occur after treatment. Carefully observe whether similar warts reappear, and if they do, early removal is crucial.
Treatment Process
01
Registration
Registration and chart creation. Smoother treatment is possible with a prior appointment.
02
Consultation
In-person consultation with the doctor.
03
Procedure
Condyloma removal procedure is performed.
04
Examination
Removed condyloma is sent to a laboratory for testing.
05
Results
Test results are provided after 3 days.
