HPV, Recurring Warts, and Urological Concerns: A Patient's Guide

Glans, cauliflower, foreskin..?

Hello, doctor.
I have not undergone any circumcision surgery and I have a bit of diabetes.
I was previously diagnosed with warts at a clinic, which were very small and only a few.
I have undergone laser removal, but they keep recurring, having recurred twice so far, approximately every 2 to 3 months.
The clinic doctor mentioned that 97% of people who have had genital warts may develop antibodies and can completely recover after two years, and advised me not to worry.
Is this true?
In normal daily life, can sharing clothes or food transmit genital warts? After engaging in sexual activity, I noticed a rash on the glans that looked somewhat alarming, but it disappeared after some time.
There was even an occasion when I worked on a construction site and didn't shower for two days; I felt itchy and discovered a large red rash around the glans and the foreskin, which looked swollen and red.
What could this condition be? When I visited the clinic, the rash had just disappeared.
I have considered circumcision because the clinic doctor previously diagnosed that the foreskin was tearing due to high blood sugar.
If I undergo circumcision, will it help prevent further tearing?

Mr. Fat, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/06/09

Dr. Chen Jiansheng reply Urology

Please seek medical attention.

Reply Date: 2023/06/09

More Info

Understanding HPV, Recurring Warts, and Urological Concerns: A Patient's Guide
Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is a common sexually transmitted infection that can lead to various health issues, including genital warts and, in some cases, cancers. It's important to understand the nature of HPV, its treatment options, and how to manage recurring warts effectively.

Recurring Warts and Treatment Options
You mentioned experiencing recurring warts after laser treatment. It's not uncommon for HPV-related warts to recur, as the virus can remain dormant in the body even after visible warts are removed. The immune system plays a crucial role in controlling HPV. In many cases, individuals can develop immunity to the virus over time, which may lead to the resolution of warts without further treatment. The statistic you mentioned—that 97% of people may clear the virus within two years—is supported by research indicating that many individuals can indeed eliminate HPV from their system, particularly those with a healthy immune response.

However, some individuals may experience persistent or recurrent warts. In such cases, additional treatments may be necessary. Options include topical treatments like imiquimod (Aldara) or podofilox, cryotherapy, electrosurgery, or further laser treatments. It's essential to discuss with your healthcare provider which option is best suited for your situation, especially considering your diabetes, which can affect healing and immune response.

Transmission and Daily Life
Regarding your concerns about transmission, HPV is primarily spread through direct skin-to-skin contact during sexual activity. It is not transmitted through casual contact such as sharing clothes or food. However, it is crucial to maintain good hygiene and avoid sharing personal items that may come into contact with the genital area.

The red rash you experienced on your glans after sexual activity could be due to several factors, including irritation, an allergic reaction, or a mild infection. If the rash resolves on its own, it may not be a cause for concern, but recurrent symptoms warrant a visit to a healthcare provider for a thorough evaluation.

Circumcision and Prevention
You mentioned considering circumcision due to recurrent issues with your foreskin. Circumcision can help reduce the risk of infections and may alleviate issues related to phimosis (tight foreskin), which can lead to irritation and cracking. If you have diabetes, maintaining good glycemic control is essential, as high blood sugar levels can impair healing and increase the risk of infections.

In terms of prevention, practicing safe sex by using condoms can significantly reduce the risk of HPV transmission, although it does not provide complete protection since HPV can infect areas not covered by a condom. Regular check-ups and screenings are also vital, especially if you have a history of HPV-related issues.

Conclusion
In summary, while many individuals can clear HPV from their systems, some may experience recurrent warts that require ongoing management. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including proper diabetes management, can enhance your immune response. If you have concerns about your symptoms or treatment options, it is crucial to have open discussions with your healthcare provider to tailor a plan that addresses your specific needs. Remember, you are not alone in this journey, and many resources are available to support you.

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