Genital Warts: Symptoms, Treatment, and HPV Vaccination

Cauliflower problem

Hello Dr.
Wu: In May of this year, I discovered warts on my genitals.
After undergoing electrosurgery and applying a wart treatment cream for 2-3 sessions, it appears that there are no visible lesions left.
Prior to the outbreak, I had oral sex and kissing.
Recently, I found about 1mm-sized fleshy growths (approximately 2-4 scattered growths) under my tongue, and I also notice an unusual odor in my mouth.
The areas with the growths are not painful.
Could this be an oral wart infection? If I receive the HPV vaccine, will it prevent future recurrences?

Shui Yu, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/08/10

Dr. Wu Yuxin reply Dermatology

Based on the literal description, it is not possible to confirm the condition without actually seeing the lesion.
It is recommended to have a physician evaluate it for accurate diagnosis.

Reply Date: 2015/08/10

More Info

Genital warts, also known as condylomata acuminata, are caused by certain strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV), particularly types 6 and 11. These warts can appear on the genital area, as well as in the mouth and throat, particularly after oral sexual contact with an infected partner. It’s important to understand the symptoms, treatment options, and the role of HPV vaccination in managing this condition.

Symptoms of Genital Warts
Genital warts typically present as small, flesh-colored or gray growths that can be flat or raised. They may appear as single warts or in clusters, resembling a cauliflower. In some cases, they may not cause any symptoms, but they can lead to discomfort, itching, or bleeding, especially if they are irritated. In your case, the appearance of small growths under the tongue could suggest the presence of oral warts, which can occur due to HPV transmission through oral sex.

Treatment Options
Treatment for genital warts can vary based on the size, location, and number of warts. Common treatment methods include:
1. Topical Treatments: These include medications such as imiquimod (Aldara) or podofilox (Condylox), which can be applied directly to the warts to help eliminate them.

2. Procedural Treatments: Options such as cryotherapy (freezing the warts), electrosurgery (burning the warts), or laser therapy can be effective for larger or more persistent warts.

3. Surgical Removal: In some cases, warts may need to be surgically excised, especially if they are extensive or recurrent.

It’s essential to consult with a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis and to discuss the most appropriate treatment options for your specific situation.

HPV Vaccination
The HPV vaccine is designed to protect against the most common high-risk and low-risk strains of HPV, including types 6 and 11, which are responsible for most cases of genital warts. Vaccination can significantly reduce the risk of developing new warts and can also protect against certain types of cancer associated with high-risk HPV strains.

In your case, receiving the HPV vaccine after having experienced genital warts may still be beneficial. While the vaccine will not treat existing warts or HPV infections, it can help prevent future infections from other strains of HPV that you may not have been exposed to yet. It’s important to discuss this with your healthcare provider, who can provide personalized advice based on your medical history and current health status.

Conclusion
Given your recent symptoms and history of genital warts, it’s crucial to seek medical attention for a thorough evaluation. The presence of growths in the oral cavity warrants further investigation to determine whether they are indeed related to HPV. Additionally, discussing the HPV vaccination with your healthcare provider can help you make an informed decision about your health and future prevention strategies.

In summary, while genital warts can be distressing, effective treatments are available, and vaccination can play a key role in preventing future infections. Always consult with a healthcare professional for tailored advice and treatment options.

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