Misdiagnosis of Genital Warts: Symptoms and Treatment

Q: Misdiagnosis of Genital Warts: Symptoms and Treatment

Jimmy： Hello?? I'm not sure if the tissue that was removed was sent for pathological examination. <br>If it was sent for testing, it can confirm whether there is any presence of warts. <br>If there are any unclear points, feel free to ask again, and we can discuss and research fu

Regarding cauliflower misdiagnosis?

Hello, doctor! On June 29th, I accidentally injured my glans corona while masturbating too vigorously.
I had previously noticed white bumps on the glans that looked like pimples (which have been more prominent during erections for over two months), and there were also red spots that disappeared within 2-3 days.
On the 30th, I visited a urology clinic, and the doctor said that the area I injured (the red and swollen spot from the 29th) looked like genital warts and recommended immediate electrocautery.
He did not ask about any risky sexual behavior.
He also mentioned that I had pearly penile papules and suggested electrocautery for those as well.
Additionally, he said my foreskin was too long and recommended circumcision, stating that if I didn't have it done, the issue might recur.
The total cost was 10,000 TWD, with the electrocautery being 2,500 TWD.
I was shocked by the genital warts diagnosis and just wanted to resolve the issue quickly.
After the electrocautery, I was advised to schedule a circumcision.
I was given a tube of ointment and four types of medication, but no names for the medications were provided.
On July 1st, I underwent testing for HIV and syphilis, both of which came back negative.
My question is, is it possible that I do not actually have genital warts? Now the wound is starting to bleed.

A-Wen, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/07/05

Dr. Xu Weikai reply Urology

Jimmy: Hello?? I'm not sure if the tissue that was removed was sent for pathological examination.
If it was sent for testing, it can confirm whether there is any presence of warts.
If there are any unclear points, feel free to ask again, and we can discuss and research further.
Answers found online should only be used as a reference; if necessary, it's important to seek medical care at a healthcare facility.
The Ministry of Health and Welfare Taitung Hospital cares about you.

Reply Date: 2015/07/05

More Info

Genital warts, caused by certain strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV), can often be misdiagnosed due to their appearance and the symptoms they present. In your case, it seems that the diagnosis was made quickly without a thorough examination of your medical history or the specific characteristics of the lesions on your penis.
The symptoms you described, such as white bumps that resemble pimples and transient red spots, can be associated with various conditions, including pearly penile papules, which are harmless and common anatomical variations, or even other benign skin conditions. The fact that the red spots disappeared after a few days suggests they may not be related to a sexually transmitted infection (STI) like genital warts.

It's important to understand that genital warts typically appear as small, flesh-colored or gray swellings in the genital area. They can be raised or flat, single or multiple, and may resemble cauliflower. If the lesions you have do not fit this description, it raises the possibility that they may not be genital warts.
The recommendation for immediate treatment through electrosurgery without further diagnostic testing or a second opinion can be concerning. While electrosurgery is a common treatment for genital warts, it is crucial to ensure that the diagnosis is accurate before proceeding with any invasive procedures. Additionally, the mention of your long foreskin and the recommendation for circumcision should also be considered carefully, as circumcision is a significant procedure that should not be taken lightly.

Given that you have tested negative for HIV and syphilis, it is a positive sign, but it does not rule out the possibility of HPV or other infections. It is advisable to seek a second opinion from a qualified dermatologist or urologist who specializes in sexually transmitted infections. They can perform a thorough examination, possibly including a biopsy of the lesions if necessary, to confirm the diagnosis.

If the lesions are indeed benign, such as pearly penile papules or another non-STD-related condition, you may not need any treatment at all. On the other hand, if they are confirmed to be genital warts, there are various treatment options available, including topical treatments, cryotherapy, and laser therapy, which can be discussed with your healthcare provider.

In summary, it is essential to ensure that you have an accurate diagnosis before undergoing any treatment. Misdiagnosis can lead to unnecessary procedures and anxiety. Seeking a second opinion and discussing your concerns openly with a healthcare professional will help you make informed decisions about your health. Always prioritize clear communication with your healthcare provider about your symptoms, medical history, and any concerns you may have regarding treatment options.

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