How is Genital Warts Diagnosed and Treated? - Urology

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Genital warts, also known as condylomata acuminata, are a common sexually transmitted infection caused by certain strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV). The diagnosis and treatment of genital warts can be straightforward, but there are important considerations to ensure proper management.


Diagnosis of Genital Warts
The diagnosis of genital warts is primarily clinical, based on the appearance of the lesions. A healthcare provider typically performs a visual inspection and may conduct a physical examination to confirm the presence of warts. The characteristic appearance of genital warts includes small, flesh-colored or gray growths that may resemble cauliflower or small bumps. In your case, the description of the lesions as being near the base of the penis and increasing in size aligns with typical presentations of genital warts.

While visual diagnosis is often sufficient, additional tests can be performed to rule out other conditions. For example, a biopsy may be conducted if there is uncertainty about the diagnosis or if the lesions appear atypical. Blood tests for HPV are not routinely used for diagnosis, as they do not provide definitive information about the presence of genital warts. Instead, HPV testing is more commonly used in cervical cancer screening for women.


Treatment Options
Treatment for genital warts aims to remove the warts and alleviate any associated symptoms. Several treatment options are available:
1. Topical Treatments: Medications such as imiquimod (Aldara) or podofilox (Condylox) are commonly prescribed. These treatments can be applied directly to the warts and work by stimulating the immune system or destroying the wart tissue. You mentioned receiving imiquimod (乐得美), which is a common choice. It is important to follow the instructions provided by your healthcare provider regarding the application frequency and duration. If the area is small, it may be possible to divide the medication for multiple applications, but this should be confirmed with your doctor.

2. Cryotherapy: This involves freezing the warts with liquid nitrogen, which causes them to fall off over time.

3. Electrosurgery: This method uses electrical currents to burn off the warts.

4. Laser Treatment: In cases where warts are extensive or resistant to other treatments, laser therapy may be employed.

5. Surgical Removal: For larger or persistent warts, surgical excision may be necessary.


Follow-Up and Monitoring
After treatment, it is essential to monitor the area for any recurrence of warts. Genital warts can recur even after successful treatment because the underlying HPV infection may remain dormant in the body. Regular follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider are crucial to assess the effectiveness of the treatment and to manage any new lesions that may arise.


Additional Considerations
- Safe Sexual Practices: Since genital warts are sexually transmitted, it is advisable to practice safe sex, including the use of condoms, to reduce the risk of transmission to partners. However, condoms do not provide complete protection, as HPV can infect areas not covered by the condom.

- Vaccination: The HPV vaccine can prevent infection with the most common strains of HPV that cause genital warts and cervical cancer. Discussing vaccination options with your healthcare provider may be beneficial, especially if you are under the recommended age for vaccination.

- Emotional Support: Dealing with a sexually transmitted infection can be stressful. Consider seeking support from healthcare professionals or counseling services if you experience anxiety or distress related to your diagnosis.

In summary, genital warts can often be diagnosed through visual examination, and treatment options include topical medications, cryotherapy, and surgical methods. It is crucial to follow your healthcare provider's instructions regarding treatment and to maintain open communication about any concerns or questions you may have during your follow-up visits.