HPV and Genital Warts

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a common group of viruses with many types that can affect the skin and mucosa. Infection can occur without causing any symptoms in most people. Some types of HPV can cause genital warts, and some high-risk types can cause cellular changes associated with certain cancers.

The types of HPV that cause genital warts and the types associated with the development of cancer are often different. Having genital warts does not mean that the person has cancer or will develop cancer in the future. However, it is important not to neglect appropriate screening and controls.

How is HPV Transmitted?

Genital HPV is mostly transmitted by close contact of infected skin and mucous membranes during vaginal, anal or oral sexual contact. Full sexual intercourse is not required for transmission, and transmission can occur even when there are no visible warts.

Because symptoms may appear months or years after exposure, it is often not possible to determine precisely when or from whom the infection was acquired. The use of a condom may reduce the risk of transmission, but it does not provide full protection because the virus can pass through areas of skin not covered by a condom.

Genital Warts and Diagnosis

Genital warts; It can be seen as single or multiple, flat or raised, skin-colored or differently colored formations in the genital area or around the anus. Not every genital bump is due to HPV. Molluscum contagiosum, skin appendages, sebaceous glands, and some moles can mimic genital warts.

Diagnosis is usually made by dermatological examination. If the appearance of the lesion is unusual, the diagnosis is uncertain, there is no response to treatment, or there is bleeding, ulceration, hardening or discoloration, a biopsy may be required.

HPV testing is not routinely used to confirm the diagnosis of visible genital warts or to select treatment. HPV tests for the cervix and cervical cancer screenings are a separate evaluation area. When necessary, evaluation may be made together with gynecology and obstetrics, urology or other relevant specialties.

Genital Wart Treatment

The aim of the treatment is to eliminate visible warts and reduce complaints such as itching and sensitivity, if any. The applied methods do not guarantee complete clearance of HPV from the body; Therefore, warts may reoccur after successful treatment.

When choosing treatment, the number, size, location and prevalence of warts, the patient's immune and pregnancy status, previous treatments and personal preferences are evaluated together.

The following methods can be used in suitable patients:

* Cryotherapy

* Electrocauterization

* Laser applications

* Surgical removal

* Topical treatments prescribed by the physician

The healing process and possible side effects of each method are different. Temporary redness, tenderness, crusting, scarring or discoloration may occur after the procedure. There is no single ideal treatment method for every patient and every lesion.

Repetition and Partner Evaluation

Even if treatment eliminates visible warts, the virus may continue to be present in asymptomatic cells in the surrounding area. For this reason, new warts may appear, especially in the period following treatment. Picking, scratching, or running a razor over the lesions can damage the surrounding skin and contribute to spread.

It is recommended that the current partner be informed about the situation. If a wart or suspicious formation is noticed in the partner, an examination should be performed. Whether examination for other sexually transmitted infections is required is decided based on personal risks and medical history.

Protection from HPV

HPV vaccine can help prevent infections due to HPV types and their associated health problems. However, it does not treat existing HPV infection or existing genital warts. Vaccine eligibility; It is evaluated taking into account the person's age, previous vaccinations and medical condition.

Using condoms, participating in appropriate screenings, evaluating suspicious lesions without delay, and attending recommended check-ups are important for prevention and follow-up.

When to Consult a Dermatologist?

If a new bump, wart, wound, bleeding, discoloration or non-healing formation is noticed in the genital or anal area, a dermatologist should be consulted. Evaluation should not be delayed if there is pregnancy or a disease or medication that affects the immune system.

Specialist Dr. At Armin Müştak Dermatology Practice, genital warts are evaluated with confidentiality. The treatment and follow-up plan is determined according to the examination findings and the medical characteristics of the person.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do Genital Warts Mean That I Have Cancer?

No. Most genital warts are caused by HPV types that are not associated with cancer. However, a person may also carry high-risk HPV types at the same time. For this reason, treating genital warts does not replace cervical cancer screening. Screening should continue according to the individual’s age and previous test results.

Is Every Bump in the Genital Area a Wart? Is an HPV Test Needed for Diagnosis?

No. Normal anatomical structures and various skin conditions can be mistaken for genital warts. Diagnosis is usually made through a physical examination. A biopsy may be required if a lesion looks unusual, bleeds, develops into a sore, or does not respond to treatment. Routine HPV testing is not recommended for diagnosing genital warts; HPV tests used in cervical cancer screening serve a different purpose.

How Are Genital Warts Treated? Can They Return After Treatment?

Depending on the number, size, and location of the warts, treatment options may include cryotherapy, electrocautery, prescription topical medications, or surgical removal. Treatment aims to remove visible warts but does not guarantee that HPV has been completely cleared from the body. Genital warts may recur, particularly during the first few months after treatment. Products intended for warts on the hands or feet should never be used on the genital area.

Does the HPV Vaccine Treat Existing Genital Warts? Can Someone Who Has Had HPV Still Be Vaccinated?

The HPV vaccine does not treat an existing HPV infection or genital warts; it is intended to help prevent future infections. Having had HPV does not necessarily mean that a person has been exposed to every HPV type covered by the vaccine. Vaccination may therefore still be recommended after considering the person’s age, vaccination history, and individual circumstances. HPV vaccination does not replace recommended cervical cancer screening.

Should I Tell My Partner? Do Condoms Provide Complete Protection?

It is important to inform your current partner. HPV may be present even when there are no symptoms, so an examination and, when appropriate, testing for other sexually transmitted infections may be considered. Routine HPV testing is not recommended solely because a partner has genital warts. Condoms reduce the risk of transmission but do not provide complete protection because they do not cover all genital skin. Sexual contact should be avoided while visible warts are present; however, the disappearance of the warts does not mean that the risk of transmission has completely ended.

How Is HPV Transmitted? Do Newly Appearing Genital Warts Mean the Infection Is Recent?

HPV is most commonly transmitted through direct skin-to-skin or mucosal contact during sexual activity; penetrative intercourse is not required. People without visible warts can also carry and transmit the virus. Because genital warts may appear months or even years after exposure, it is usually impossible to determine exactly when or from whom the infection was acquired. An HPV or genital wart diagnosis alone is not evidence of a partner’s infidelity.