Condylomas (Condylomata Acuminata) are called genital warts, which are caused by the human papilloma virus (HPV). They belong to the group of sexually transmitted infections, affecting both sexes. Prerequisites for infection are unsafe sexual contact and multiple sexual partners.
Types of condylomas
Genital warts are a common problem affecting patients of active age. They can look very diverse depending on their number, shape, size, color and more.
There are several different clinical variants of genital warts, some of which behave differently.
- condylomata acuminata
- plane condylomas
- Bowenoid papulosis
- Buschke-Lowenstein type
Distinguishing the different types of condylomas most often can be done even by pictures and requires an examination by a dermatologist. This is important because some types are potentially dangerous and may require some additional treatments.
Genital condylomas in men
Genital condylomas in men are most often localized in the area of the preputium, the hairy part around the penis, the perianal area. They can range in number from singles to dozens and even hundreds, ranging in size from the head of a pin to the size of a bean. They are usually the color of the surrounding skin or slightly darker. If you look closely, you can see that their surface resembles cauliflower. Subjective complaints are itching and unpleasant odor. Shaving can cause them to spread to surrounding areas.
Genital condylomas in women
Genital condylomas in women are localized in the area of the labia minora and labia majora, as well as perianally. In some cases, they can progress to involve the cervix and anal mucosa. Due to the relatively high humidity, condylomas in this area are more often soft and macerated, often emitting an unpleasant odor. In women, serotyping is often required because some types of warts have malignant potential and are thought to be precursors to cervical cancer.
Diagnosis
The diagnosis is based on the localization and characteristic morphology of the formations. In women, serotyping of the causative agent may be necessary because of its association with cervical cancer.
Treatment of condylomas
Treatment of condylomas consists of two aspects - increasing the local and general immunity of patients on the one hand, as well as the destruction of the genital warts themselves on the other. In order for such therapy to be successful, it needs to be regularly monitored and long enough.
Immunostimulators - as with all viral diseases, as with genital warts, one of the foundations of therapy is the maintenance of a good local and general immune response. For this purpose, immunostimulators of different strengths are prescribed depending on the degree of involvement and the general condition of the patients. To be effective, this therapy must be long enough – at least 1-2 months.
Cream for genital warts - for home treatment, various acid-based creams and solutions are often prescribed, which have a destructive effect. They are applied 1 or 2 times a day, only on the genital warts themselves, sparing the surrounding skin. They cause controlled destruction of viral tissues. The advantage of this method is that it can be used at home, the lack of pain and the low price.
Electrocoagulation – is a destructive method based on electric current, which is suitable for removing condylomas on a broad basis. The disadvantage is that the degree of invasion cannot be precisely controlled and scarring is possible.
Laser – the best solution for multiple viral warts. The procedure is quick, but requires a visit to a specialized center. The high price can be considered as a disadvantage.
Examination at a dermatologist in Sofia
If you suffer from genital warts, you need to make an appointment with a dermatologist-venerologist. In clinic Dr. Stavrov Aesthetics diagnoses and treats various skin and venereal diseases. Our address is the city of Sofia, g.k. Manastirski livadi - west, Prof. Velizar Velkov St. 36 (behind Pulse fitness center). See how to find us on the about page contact page. We offer online consultation.
Prevention and prognosis
With proper therapy and regular follow-up, viral warts are an easily solvable problem. Prevention consists of regular preventive examinations and timely treatment.
FAQ
How long after infection do genital warts appear?
The incubation period for genital warts is about 2-4 weeks.
What are condylomas treated with?
The treatment of genital warts is complex and consists of increasing the local and systemic immune response on the one hand, as well as destroying the formations themselves on the other.