Human papillomaviruses (HPV) are a group of microorganisms that cause genital warts, which are classified as high-risk and low-risk according to their ability to cause cancer.
It is considered a sexually transmitted disease. It is spread through oral, vaginal or anal contact with an infected person. Virtually all sexually active men and women will get it at some point in their lives.
Condylomas are usually asymptomatic lesions. However, they can cause itching, burning, inflammation, an irritating sensation and, less commonly, pain or even bleeding during sexual intercourse. The most common types of warts are textured warts or raised lesions of varying sizes that resemble a cauliflower. In men, the warts can appear on the tip or body of the penis, anus or scrotum. In women, they can appear in the vulva and perineal area, extending towards the vagina and cervix. However, they can also occur in the throat and mouth of a person who has had oral sex with an infected person.
Diagnosis is made clinically by interview and physical examination. There is no specific test to determine whether a person is infected with HPV. It is very important for women to be screened regularly to prevent the development of cervical cancer.
There are several treatments to remove the warts: cryotherapy, electrocautery or surgical removal. Cytotoxic drugs or immunomodulators applied to the lesions may also be used.
A vaccine is available to protect both men and women.
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