Condyloma (Genital Wart)
What Is It? How Is It Treated?

What Is Condyloma?

The white-grey bumps that form on the skin or mucosa of the genital area due to the HPV virus are called genital warts. Their medical name is condyloma (condyloma acuminata). Genital warts are quite common in the population and are mostly transmitted sexually.

TOPICS

HPV has about 40 different types that can cause genital warts. In the United States, it is reported to be transmitted to about 6 million people per year.

When Does Condyloma Appear?

Condylomas usually appear about 3–4 months after the HPV virus enters the body. However, the incubation period of the virus can vary between 2 weeks and 2 years.

The Most Common Locations

• In women, the area between the vaginal entrance and the anus (the fourchette area)
• The area around the vagina
• In men, the head of the penis and the foreskin
• The base of the penis
• The groin area

What Does Condyloma Look Like?

Condylomas are usually painless but can cause itching. They can bleed when pulled off or cut with a razor.

HPV and Cancer Risk

High-risk HPV types can sometimes settle in the cervical cells without forming a visible wart and can increase the risk of cervical cancer over many years.

Diagnosis of Condyloma

When necessary, the type of the lesion can be determined with an HPV DNA test.

Treatment of Condyloma

Treatment should not be delayed once a diagnosis has been made. The most effective method is the fractional carbon dioxide laser.

• Its effectiveness has been proven
• The recurrence rate is low
• The risk of scarring is minimal
• It is controlled and safe