Post-Treatment Concerns for Genital Warts

Q: Post-Treatment Concerns for Genital Warts

Hello： 1) When you mention self-limiting, it refers to the condition resolving on its own, and it is not restricted to a fixed location; surrounding skin may also be susceptible to infection. <br>2) It can be almost ruled out, but it is difficult to determine whether the virus st

Post-treatment issues of warts?

1.
The term "self-limiting" regarding the wart virus (human papillomavirus, HPV) means that the virus typically remains localized in the infected area of the skin and does not spread to other parts of the body.
Therefore, if the affected area is treated with electrosurgery, it is likely that the virus in that specific area will be eliminated.
2.
If there are no recurrences of warts for 2 to 3 years, or even 4 to 5 years after treatment (assuming no reinfection from a partner or through sexual activity), it may suggest a reduced risk of recurrence.
However, it does not definitively mean that the virus is completely absent from the body, as HPV can remain dormant.
3.
Receiving the quadrivalent or nonavalent HPV vaccine after being infected with HPV may help boost the immune response and increase antibody levels.
However, it is important to note that the vaccine is most effective when given before the onset of sexual activity and may not eliminate existing infections.

Nìmíng, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/05/05

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology

Hello: 1) When you mention self-limiting, it refers to the condition resolving on its own, and it is not restricted to a fixed location; surrounding skin may also be susceptible to infection.
2) It can be almost ruled out, but it is difficult to determine whether the virus still exists.
3) This is for prevention; the indications approved by the government for males are boys and men.
GARDASIL 9 is indicated for boys and men aged 9-26 to prevent genital warts (condylomata acuminata) caused by HPV types 6 and 11, and it has no therapeutic effect.
It is only effective against types 6 and 11.

Reply Date: 2019/05/05

More Info

When discussing genital warts, or condylomata acuminata, it is essential to understand the nature of the human papillomavirus (HPV) that causes them, as well as the implications of treatment and recurrence.
1. Self-Limiting Nature of HPV: The term "self-limiting" in the context of HPV refers to the fact that many HPV infections can resolve on their own without treatment. This does not mean that the virus is confined to a specific area of the skin and does not move; rather, it indicates that the immune system can often clear the virus over time. After treatment, such as electrosurgery, the visible warts may be removed, but this does not guarantee that the virus is entirely eradicated from the body. HPV can remain dormant in the skin cells, and while the treated area may appear clear, the virus can still exist in a latent state. Therefore, while electrosurgery can effectively remove warts, it does not necessarily eliminate the virus from the body.

2. Recurrence and Risk Assessment: If a person has undergone treatment for genital warts and does not experience any recurrence for several years, it may suggest that the immune system has effectively controlled the virus. However, it is crucial to note that the absence of visible warts does not equate to the complete absence of the virus. HPV can remain in the body and may reactivate later, especially if the immune system is compromised. Therefore, while a long period without recurrence may reduce the likelihood of future outbreaks, it does not completely eliminate the risk of recurrence or transmission.

3. Vaccination Post-Infection: Receiving the HPV vaccine (either the quadrivalent or nonavalent) after being infected with HPV can still provide benefits. The vaccine is designed to protect against multiple strains of HPV, including those that cause genital warts and those associated with cervical cancer. If a person has already been infected with one strain of HPV, the vaccine can still help protect against other strains they have not yet encountered. Additionally, vaccination may help boost the immune response against the strains that the individual has already been infected with, potentially reducing the risk of future complications.

In summary, while HPV infections can be self-limiting and may resolve without treatment, the virus can remain dormant in the body. Treatment can effectively remove visible warts, but it does not guarantee the virus's complete eradication. A long period without recurrence may indicate effective immune control, but it does not eliminate the risk of future outbreaks. Vaccination can still be beneficial even after infection, as it may protect against other strains and enhance the immune response. It is always advisable for individuals to discuss their specific situation with a healthcare provider for personalized guidance and recommendations.

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