Warts: Concerns and Treatments for Skin Issues

The issue of warts?

I have been experiencing heat and occasional itching in my genital area, which led me to shave.
I discovered a small, skin-colored bump at the base of my pubic hair, measuring about 0.1 cm.
Due to my anxiety, I consulted a doctor who advised me to monitor it, but mentioned that if I wanted to know more, I could have a biopsy.
I arranged for the biopsy, but the wait time is a bit long, and I am concerned.
I also visited a dermatologist and showed them a potential wart on my finger.
The dermatologist said it was not obvious, but if I was worried, they could freeze it off.
A few days later, I noticed a red bump in my right groin area after sweating a lot.
I initially thought it was folliculitis and didn't pay much attention to it.
However, while waiting for the biopsy, I decided to get tested at a lab, which resulted in a large area being swabbed.
The next day, I returned for my cryotherapy appointment and showed the doctor the bump.
The doctor identified it as a wart.
I was unaware it was a wart, and I initially suspected I had a swabbed area.
I then had swabs taken from my scrotum, entire penis, glans, and corona, and finally the skin-colored bump I first noticed.
I am extremely worried about whether it will spread.
The self-paid test results will not be available until next Tuesday.
1.
Should I have the dermatologist freeze off the skin-colored bump I first noticed, or should I wait for the biopsy? I am concerned about waiting too long.
2.
What is the likelihood of the self-paid test results indicating that I have infected other areas of skin?
3.
If I have the wart removed by a Western medicine approach, can I then take Traditional Chinese Medicine for six months?
4.
If I avoid contact with my genitals and refrain from sexual activity for the next two years, and no new growth appears, can I rule out any skin infections near the genital area? Or is it still considered rare if nothing appears after one year?
Thank you, doctor.

Xiao, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/10/18

Dr. Wu Yuxin reply Dermatology

No lesions were observed, making it impossible to determine the issue.
If it is causing significant distress, it is advisable to seek medical attention.
The subsequent information will be hypothetical and cannot provide definitive answers.

Reply Date: 2018/10/18

More Info

Warts are benign growths on the skin caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). They can appear anywhere on the body, including sensitive areas like the genital region. Your concerns about the small skin-colored bump you discovered, along with the recent developments of red bumps, are valid and warrant careful consideration.

1. Initial Skin-colored Bump: The small bump you initially noticed could indeed be a wart, especially if it has a rough texture or appears to be growing. If your dermatologist suggested freezing it (cryotherapy), this is a common and effective treatment for warts. However, if you are awaiting a biopsy, it may be prudent to wait for the results before proceeding with any treatment. A biopsy can provide a definitive diagnosis, ensuring that the growth is indeed a wart and not something else, such as a seborrheic keratosis or a different skin lesion. If the bump is causing you significant anxiety or discomfort, discussing the option of cryotherapy with your dermatologist may be beneficial, as it can provide immediate relief.

2. Risk of Infection: The likelihood of spreading the virus to other areas of your skin is a concern, especially if you are experiencing new lesions. HPV is contagious, and it can spread through direct contact with the wart or through surfaces that have come into contact with the virus. Maintaining good hygiene, avoiding scratching the area, and refraining from sharing personal items like towels can help minimize the risk of spreading the virus. If you notice any new bumps or changes in your skin, it’s essential to report these to your dermatologist.

3. Combining Treatments: If you decide to pursue traditional medical treatments for the warts, such as cryotherapy or topical treatments, it is generally safe to explore complementary therapies, such as traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), afterward. However, it’s crucial to inform both your Western and TCM practitioners about all treatments you are undergoing to avoid any potential interactions or complications. TCM may offer supportive therapies that can help boost your immune system, which is essential in managing viral infections like HPV.

4. Monitoring for Recurrence: If you refrain from sexual activity and do not develop new lesions for two years, it may suggest that your body has cleared the infection, but it does not guarantee that you are entirely free from HPV. Some strains of HPV can remain dormant in the body and may reactivate later. Regular check-ups with your dermatologist are advisable, as they can monitor any changes and provide guidance on maintaining skin health.

In conclusion, while waiting for your biopsy results, it’s essential to manage your anxiety and keep an open line of communication with your healthcare provider. They can provide you with the best advice tailored to your specific situation. Remember, warts are common and treatable, and with the right approach, you can effectively manage your skin health. Always prioritize your well-being and seek immediate medical attention if you experience any concerning symptoms.

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