Anal Warts: Growth Patterns and Medical Insights - Surgery

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Anal warts


I would like to ask the doctor, once genital warts develop small growths, do they generally proliferate quickly? I previously felt a grain-like wart near the anal area that seemed to be a genital wart, but after some time, it remained just one.
Recently, I visited a colorectal specialist, and the doctor indicated that if it were a genital wart, it would grow outside the anal area.
Is this correct? I am a bit confused, so I would like to seek advice from other physicians.

Xiang, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/09/25

Dr. Ke Fangxu reply Surgery


In principle, yes, but the growth rate may vary from person to person.
The only definitive way to confirm this is through a biopsy; otherwise, we can only observe for now.

Reply Date: 2017/09/25

More Info


Anal warts, commonly referred to as genital warts or condylomata acuminata, are caused by certain strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV). Understanding their growth patterns and the medical insights surrounding them is crucial for effective management and treatment.

To address your question regarding the growth patterns of anal warts, it is important to note that while some individuals may experience rapid growth and proliferation of warts, this is not universally the case. The behavior of anal warts can vary significantly from person to person. In some cases, a single wart may remain small and stable for an extended period, as you have described with the "米粒狀" (rice grain-sized) wart you found near your anus. This can occur for several reasons, including the individual's immune response to the virus, the specific strain of HPV involved, and other personal health factors.

Your doctor’s observation that warts typically grow outward from the anal area is generally accurate. Many patients with anal warts will notice that they can spread or multiply over time, particularly if left untreated. However, it is also possible for some individuals to have a solitary wart that does not progress. The HPV virus can remain dormant in the body, and not all infections lead to visible warts. In fact, many people carry HPV without ever developing warts or other symptoms.

The growth of anal warts can be influenced by several factors:
1. Immune System Response: A strong immune system may keep the virus in check, preventing the warts from growing or spreading. Conversely, individuals with weakened immune systems may experience more aggressive wart growth.

2. HPV Strain: There are over 100 types of HPV, and certain strains are more likely to cause warts than others. For instance, HPV types 6 and 11 are commonly associated with genital warts, while types 16 and 18 are linked to higher risks of cancer.

3. Location and Environment: The moist environment of the anal area can facilitate the growth of warts. However, if the wart is not in an area conducive to spreading (e.g., friction from clothing), it may remain small.

4. Treatment: If warts are treated, either through topical medications, cryotherapy, or surgical removal, their growth can be halted, and they may not return.

Regarding your concern about the wart remaining as a single entity, it is not uncommon for some warts to remain isolated. However, it is essential to monitor any changes in size, shape, or number of warts, as these can indicate a need for further medical evaluation.

If you have been diagnosed with anal warts, it is advisable to follow up with your healthcare provider for appropriate treatment options. Treatments can include:
- Topical Treatments: Such as imiquimod or podofilox, which can help to stimulate the immune response or directly destroy the wart tissue.

- Cryotherapy: Freezing the warts with liquid nitrogen.

- Surgical Options: Such as excision or laser therapy for larger or persistent warts.

In conclusion, while it is common for anal warts to proliferate, individual experiences can vary widely. If you have concerns about the growth of your wart or its potential to spread, it is best to consult with a healthcare professional who can provide personalized advice and treatment options based on your specific situation. Regular check-ups and open communication with your healthcare provider are key to managing HPV-related conditions effectively.

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