Dr. M.J. Bazos, MD Patient Handout

CONDYLOMATA ACUMINATA
(GENITAL WARTS)

About Your Diagnosis

Condylomata acuminata are warts that appear in the genital area, including in the urethra and rectum. They are caused by the same human papillomavirus as other warts but are much more contagious. They can be easily passed from the skin of the infected individual, and are usually sexually transmitted. After exposure, the warts will appear in 1–6 months. They are curable with treatment.

Living With Your Diagnosis
There usually are no symptoms. These warts appear on moist surfaces such as the penis, and the entrance to the vagina and the rectum. They grow in clusters. Although the warts are small, the clusters can become very large. Complications of untreated genital warts can include cervical cancer in females and urinary obstruction in males.

Treatment
These warts need to be treated by a doctor. Small warts can be treated with a topical solution; larger warts may be treated with liquid nitrogen. Some may need laser treatment or surgical excision. Recurrence is common so treatment may need to be repeated. Your doctor may prescribe the ointment for you to apply at home.

The DOs
• Apply medication as instructed.
• Keep follow-up appointments until all warts are gone.
• Notify sexual partners so they can be examined and treated.
• Avoid sexual relations until the warts are completely gone; then use latex condoms during intercourse.
• Maintain proper hygiene.
• Be tested for other sexually transmitted diseases.

The DON’Ts
• Don’t apply the medication to moles or birthmarks, or to warts that are bleeding.
• Don’t have sexual relations until warts are gone and healing is complete.
• Don’t skip follow-up appointments. The warts can recur and a different treatment may be needed.

When to Call Your Doctor
• You have signs of recurring warts.
• Treated areas show signs of infection—redness, swelling, tenderness, or a foul smell.

Websites:
www.healthfinder.gov
www.healthanswers.com
http://sunsite.unc.edu/ASHA/