Basic Therapeutic Principles and the Strategy in the Management of the External Anogenital Warts (Condylomas): A Review

Abstract

Genital warts are a highly contagious sexually transmitted disease involving the anogenital area. They are considered to be benign proliferative conditions as a result of an infection with a low risk human papillomavirus (HPV). The goal of this paper is to review recent available clinical data, and present an overview and strategy in the diagnosis and treatment of genital warts. Med-line search was conducted and published papers related to anogenital warts were reviewed. Treatment results differ and are directly related to the characteristics of the lesion, the patients immune response and the expertise of the health provider. Smaller lesions are more amenable and respond to local treatment compared to larger and more extensive lesions. Although genital warts are generally a benign disease, however infection with certain types of HPV may increase the risk of premalignant disease. Treatment decisions are based on the number, location, morphology of the lesion and patients co-existent medical conditions and their preferences for available treatment modalities. Important issues in the diagnosis and management of genital warts are discussed and specific recommendations are presented.




doi: http://dx.doi.org/10.4021/jcgo86e