Doctor's Approach to Diagnosing and Treating Warts

Q: Doctor's Approach to Diagnosing and Treating Warts

CK： Hello. 1. Warts can be diagnosed visually. That's correct. Treatment options include topical medications or electrosurgery. 2. You can seek a second opinion from another physician. 3. It is safer to follow the instructions provided in the medic

What is the doctor's attitude towards diagnosing cauliflower?

Hello, Doctor! On June 29th, I noticed a white, fleshy growth near the urethral opening of my glans while showering, so I have a few questions to ask you.
First, on July 1st, I went to the hospital to see a doctor.
After looking at it for less than 10 seconds, the doctor said it was a wart and told me to buy medication from the pharmacy to apply myself.
I asked the doctor if I needed a follow-up appointment after applying the medication, and he replied that it wasn't necessary; if it falls off, then it's fine.
Doctor, is this really how warts are diagnosed and treated? Is it really sufficient to just buy medication from the pharmacy and apply it, and if it falls off, is that considered cured? What if it doesn't work and delays my condition instead?
My second question is whether I should seek a second opinion at another hospital or just follow what the first doctor said.
If I do go to another hospital, should I see a dermatologist or a urologist?
For my third question, I bought "Aldara" (imiquimod) cream from the pharmacy.
I read many articles stating that this medication does not directly combat the virus but rather stimulates the body to produce interferon to fight it.
However, I followed the instructions and applied it three times a week for a week, but I haven't seen any improvement.
Should I switch to a different cream or apply it daily instead?
For my fourth question, the pharmacy staff mentioned that there are oral medications that, when combined with the topical cream, can help improve the condition faster.
I bought a week's supply of a medication labeled "Ruan" (minocycline).
I looked it up online, but I couldn't find any information on whether this type of medication can treat warts.
Can you tell me, Doctor, does minocycline really kill the virus that causes warts?
Thank you, Doctor, for taking the time to answer my questions.
I hope to gain complete medical information to overcome this condition more quickly.
Thank you!

CK, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2013/07/07

Dr. Xu Weikai reply Urology

CK: Hello.
1.
Warts can be diagnosed visually.
That's correct.
Treatment options include topical medications or electrosurgery.
2.
You can seek a second opinion from another physician.
3.
It is safer to follow the instructions provided in the medication guide.
4.
Warts are generally not curable.
If there are any unclear points, feel free to ask again for further discussion and research.
Online responses should only be used as a reference; if necessary, you should visit a healthcare facility for treatment.
This message is from Dr.
Hsu Wei-Kai, Chief of Urology, Taitung Hospital, Department of Health, Executive Yuan, who cares about your health.

Reply Date: 2013/07/07

More Info

When it comes to diagnosing and treating warts, particularly genital warts (often referred to as "cauliflower" due to their appearance), there are several important considerations to keep in mind. Your experience highlights some common concerns patients have regarding the diagnosis, treatment options, and follow-up care.

Diagnosis and Initial Treatment
1. Diagnosis: The diagnosis of genital warts is often made through a visual examination by a healthcare provider. In many cases, a trained physician can identify warts based on their characteristic appearance without the need for further testing. However, it is essential to ensure that the diagnosis is accurate, as other conditions can mimic genital warts. If you have any doubts about the diagnosis, seeking a second opinion is always a good idea.

2. Treatment Options: The treatment for genital warts can vary. Over-the-counter treatments, such as imiquimod (the active ingredient in the ointment you mentioned), are commonly used. Imiquimod works by stimulating the immune system to fight the virus that causes warts. While it may take time to see results, it is crucial to follow the application instructions carefully. If you have been using it as directed for a week without improvement, it may be worth consulting your healthcare provider for further evaluation and possibly a different treatment approach.

Follow-Up Care
3. Follow-Up: The advice given by your initial doctor—that you do not need a follow-up if the warts disappear—is not uncommon. However, it is essential to monitor the area for any changes. If the warts do not respond to treatment, or if new warts appear, a follow-up visit is warranted. It is also important to discuss any concerns you have about the treatment and its effectiveness.

Seeking Further Medical Advice
4. Consulting Another Physician: If you feel uncertain about the treatment plan or the initial diagnosis, seeking a second opinion is advisable. You can choose to see a dermatologist or a urologist, as both specialties can address genital warts. A dermatologist specializes in skin conditions, while a urologist focuses on urinary tract and male reproductive health. Both can provide valuable insights and treatment options.

Additional Treatments
5. Oral Medications: Regarding the oral medication you mentioned (Minocycline), it is important to note that antibiotics like Minocycline are not effective against viral infections, including those caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), which is responsible for genital warts. While some medications may help manage symptoms or secondary infections, they do not directly treat the warts themselves. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any new medication, especially if it is not specifically indicated for your condition.

Conclusion
In summary, while your initial treatment plan may be appropriate, it is essential to remain vigilant and proactive about your health. If you do not see improvement with the current treatment, or if you have concerns about the diagnosis, do not hesitate to seek further medical advice. Genital warts can be managed effectively, and there are various treatment options available. Your health and peace of mind are paramount, so ensure you are comfortable with your treatment plan and do not hesitate to ask questions or seek additional opinions.

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