Condyloma

A condyloma or genital wart indicates the existence of a papillomavirus (HPV 6 and HPV 11 in 90% of cases) in the internal and external genitalia . These HPV types have a low risk of malignant transformation ( cervical cancer ).

The consultation is still important, because one type of HPV can hide another, hence a systematic search for precancerous lesions .

Condyloma is a sign of damage to the skin and genital mucous membranes and is the most common sexually transmitted infection . In women, warts are located on the vulva, clitoris, vagina, perineum or anus. As for the man, the genital warts are deposited on the glans, the penis or at the level of the perianal region.

More rarely, warts are located on the throat .

Once the diagnosis has been made, it is a question of determining the type of condyloma:

• Condyloma acuminata , also called “cockscomb” have a jagged crest shape. Their prominent relief determines their particularity. Flesh-colored, pinkish or grayish, they occur locally or in clusters. These are the most frequently found warts and are generally benign.
• Papular warts as their name suggests show the presence of pigmented papules with a pinkish color on a smooth surface. They can be isolated or develop in sheets.
• Flat warts are the most difficult to observe. They form small pimples or red spots around the anal area. When a clinical examination with the naked eye does not allow them to be seen, the application of 5% acetic acid and colposcopy can reveal them.

A condyloma can be asymptomatic and disappear naturally after several months: this is 90% of cases. Most of the time, contamination occurs after sexual intercourse . It is not uncommon for the virus to remain dormant and latent for a long time before manifesting itself.

A condyloma can also be transmitted with manual contact, dirty laundry or a lack of intimate hygiene .

Any signs appear between a few weeks and several months after infection. Visible bumps on the surface of the skin indicate the first noticeable symptoms. Contrary to popular belief, warts are generally painless . Some cause itching and bleeding from the skin lesions.

The low-risk types of HPV , therefore those at the origin of condyloma, can be associated in 20 to 30% of cases with the presence of HPV virus which can cause precancerous lesions. To detect these lesions in the cervix , it is recommended to perform a cervico-uterine smear every three years from the age of 25. At the level of the anal canal, anoscopy should be performed in the presence of external anal lesions.

High-risk HPVs are implicated in almost all cases of cervical and anal cancer, as well as 40-50% of rare cancers of the vulva, vagina and penis.

However, these cancers can be prevented by early detection and treatment of precancerous lesions during a clinical examination.

The papillomavirus family is extremely varied with several hundred different specificities. At Skin Marceau, we detect the strain of the virus.

Some HPV (Human Papillomavirus) strains are the cause of skin cracks that rarely develop into cancer. Their detection is the subject of additional examinations.

Genital warts are the most common sexually transmitted infections. Wearing a condom is recommended during sex.

In addition, vaccination against human papillomavirus (HPV) infections is an effective way to protect against the types of HPV responsible for cervical cancer and warts. It is highly recommended for all young girls and boys aged 11 to 14, with the possibility of catch-up vaccination between 15 and 19 years old. It is important to emphasize that vaccination is more effective when it is carried out before the start of sexual intercourse and therefore before the individual has been exposed to the HPV virus.

Although all warts are benign, recurrences are common. About 30% of warts show a relapse rate, all treatments combined. Smoking is regularly implicated in cases of recidivism.

Our dermatologists carry out a meticulous examination with the naked eye or using a magnifying glass if necessary.

At Skin Marceau, we practice the treatment of external genital warts using the Co2 laser . Unlike most treatments that burn the wart, this laser works in depth to dry out the wart at its root without damaging the skin. In the majority of cases, warts disappear completely after the first session. It is possible to schedule a second session if necessary.

The Co2 laser is suitable for all skin types and can permanently get rid of the most recalcitrant warts while preserving the epidermis. The risk of an apparent scar is considerably reduced.

Genital warts disappear effectively. Patients regain their intimate comfort and a fulfilling sex life.