Genital warts
Alternative names:
condyloma; condylomata acuminata; human papilloma virus (HPV); penile warts; venereal wart
Symptoms:
- raised "warty" appearing tumors on the genitals
- raised, flesh colored lesions
- genital lesions
- cauliflower-like appearing growths around the anus or female genitalia
- increased dampness or moisture in the area of the growths
- itching of the penis, scrotum, anal area, or a vulvar itch
- increased vaginal discharge
- abnormal vaginal bleeding (not associated with a menstrual period) after sexual intercourse (postcoital)
Note: Frequently no symptoms are noted.
Signs and tests:
A genital examination reveals flesh-colored to white, flat or raised, single or clustered lesions anywhere on the external genitalia. In women, a pelvic examination may reveal growths on the vaginal walls or the cervix. Magnification (colposcopy) may be used to see lesions invisible to the naked eye. The tissue of the vagina and cervix may be treated with acetic acid to make the warts visible.
Additional tests for women:
A Pap smear may note changes associated with HPV. A colposcopy may be done to see either external or internal genital lesions which are invisible to the naked eye.
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