Related articles: Condyloma
Definition
Condylomata are small growths that appear in the genital area of women and men. These are benign lesions of an infectious nature; in particular, condylomas are caused by infection with human papilloma virus (HPV), transmitted mainly by sexual contact, anal or oro-genital with an infected partner. HPV 6 and HPV 11 are the strains responsible in 90% of cases of genital warts and, unlike other HPV strains, have a very low oncogenic risk.
Most common symptoms and signs *
- Swelling in the anal area
- Anal itching
- Vaginal itching
- Vaginal bleeding
- Urethrorrhagia
Further indications
Condylomata have the appearance of small, fleshy rosy bumps. They are characterized by an irregular surface (often resembling a cauliflower) and can be raised or flat, small or large. Furthermore, they can be isolated or gathered in clusters.
Condylomata are usually painless; occasionally, burning, itching and blood loss may occur. They are mainly located on the external genitals and around the anus: in women, they can occur at the level of the vulva, vagina, cervix, anal canal and perianal area, while in men they typically appear on the penis and scrotum. Rarely, they can develop in the mouth or throat.
If left untreated, some warts persist and tend to spread rapidly and increase in size. If they persist for a long time, there is also the rare possibility of a tumor degeneration.
Condylomas can be eliminated with the local application of creams or solutions, with surgical excision, laser therapy, cryotherapy (burning with liquid nitrogen) and electrocautery (burning with heat).
