Condylomas, also called genital warts (due to their similar appearance to skin warts, and the fact that both are caused by the same virus), first form small pink lesions, then grow irregularly and become small benign skin growths with bumpy edges, commonly referred to as genital warts. They are located mainly in the penis and the female genitals, and tend to become chronic. In general, they do not cause pain, but you can feel them and sometimes they cause itching. A doctor can easily recognize them. If you feel small, hard growths around your genital area, it is best to get your doctor’s opinion immediately.
Genital warts are caused by some human Papillomaviruses (HPV type 6 and type 11 are responsible for 90% of cases). HPV is a very common virus that can affect both sexes. There are 45 different types of Papillomavirus that have been identified, which can be found on the skin and mucous membranes. Some types, such as those that cause warts, are considered to have low risk for genital and cervical cancer. Persistent infections, related to types of HPV from the α-papillomavirus genus, are instead associated with high-risk types, and thus pose a greater risk of developing cervical cancer and other types of HPV-related cancer. (For more information about Papillomavirus and related vaccines, go to the dedicated section).
Contagion of warts occurs by direct contact during unprotected sex, although indirect transmission can also be a cause, occurring through repeated contact with contaminated surfaces, clothing, or underwear. All conditions that cause suppression of the immune system, such as excessive consumption of hard liquor, drugs, smoking, as well as a large number of casual sex partners, can be factors that favor an infection by papilloma virus.
However, the presence of lesions caused by papilloma virus should not be considered an indicator of irregular sexual habits. Rather, it is simply an expression of a very common infection to which the overwhelming majority of male and female populations are subjected. In reality, the majority of these infections heal over a span of time that varies from 6 months to 2 years. They can, however, under particular conditions or in the case of factors that favor infection, reactivate or form a new infection due to the lack of specific antibodies that provide definitive immunity. Cervical cancer in particular, while being a serious illness, is considered a rare event in a very common infection. However, it is not possible to know beforehand which of the frequent at-risk lesions will actually evolve into cancer. Thus, it is best to visit a gynecologist, who will be able to recognize and eliminate them while avoiding any risk of aggravation. Condylomas, on the other hand, while unpleasant to look at and even embarrassing where your partner is involved (not to mention infectious), do not constitute a precursor to a possible tumor since they are benign manifestations, just like common skin warts.
Treatment is personalized on a case by case basis, and indicated by your doctor. It may include medications associated with various non-pharmacological treatments (electrocoagulation, diathermocoagulation, laser therapy, cryotherapy, surgical removal).
