GENITAL WARTS Genital warts is a viral disease manifested by a spectrum of skin and mucous membrane lesions affecting the anogenital area.
The causative agent is the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) of the papovavirus group of DNA viruses.
At least 60 human papilloma virus types have been identified.
Genital or venereal warts are in most instances caused by type 6, 11, 16 or 18.
Genital warts are mainly sexually transmitted with worldwide occurrence.
The peak incidence is in the sexually active age group of 19-35.
The incubation period is between 1 to 9 months with a mean of 3 months.
Clinical Features In the uncircumcised men the subprepuce, coronal sulcus and glans penis are affected.
Here the lesions appear as pink cauliflower like fleshy growths.
This form often called condylomata accuminata are also seen in the urinary meatus and in women on the inner aspects of the vulva, vagina and cervix.
The hyperkeratotic, skin coloured or pigmented papular warts are seen as discrete or confluent papules on the keratinised parts of anogenital skin.
Flat warts are erythematous or pink requiring application of acetic acid for visualization.
They are commonly seen on the cervix.
Complications Giant genital warts Bleeding Transmission to neonate during childbirth - childhood laryngeal papilloma Diagnosis Usually based on clinical appearance Histological diagnosis are rarely needed Treatment Podophyllin or podophyllotoxin solution or cream Trichloracetic acid solution Imiquimod cream Electrocautery Cryosurgery Scissor excision Laser therapy