Condyloma acuminata is the medical name for anal warts, a version of genital warts that form in and around the anus. Like all human warts, anal warts start with infection by certain strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV).
HPV is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and is easily transmitted through sexual contact. About 90% of condyloma infections stem from HPV types 6 and 11.
While often initially painless, anal warts can be symptomatic, most often causing anal discharge, anal itching, or rectal bleeding. An examination with proctologist Dr. Lisa A. Perryman of Colorado Colon & Rectal Specialists in Parker, Colorado, is recommended for an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment plan.
While HPV may be well-known, condyloma isn’t as commonly recognized and myths and misconceptions about it exist. This month, we’re clearing up the mystery of condyloma with 5 little known facts about the disease.
While the greatest incidence of genital warts — which include anal warts — occurs in the 20- to 24-year-old age group, there’s no age-related reason why older adults can’t be infected.
Anal warts don’t immediately develop upon HPV infection. The incubation period can last years, meaning warts appear anywhere from a month to several years after infection. The appearance of condyloma may have nothing to do with your current sexual partner — or your age.
Certain strains of HPV, known as high risk subtypes, have the greatest associated risk of anal cancer. There are many strains of HPV, and most that cause anal warts are not linked to a high cancer risk.
You can develop condyloma as a result of HPV infection through anal sex, but it’s not the only way the virus can be transmitted. Any intimate skin-to-skin contact may be enough to pass HPV strains. Even sharing sex toys can pass the virus on.
Many people infected with HPV have no symptoms. Even when anal warts appear, they may not become irritated or enlarged. If not treated, however, they can spread and become cauliflower-looking bumps and masses. Some are even inside the anal canal, and external lesions may be mistaken for hemorrhoids or anal skin tags.
Treatment–either in the office or surgical–to remove condylomas can clear up existing anal warts, but you’re still at risk, since there’s no way to eliminate the HPV infection. The risk of recurrence varies widely, so it’s impossible to predict if you’ll develop additional warts. Therefore, it’s important to follow Dr. Perryman’s follow up treatment and surveillance recommendations.
If you have symptoms of condyloma or suspect you might have anal warts, contact Colorado Colon & Rectal Specialists for an exam and diagnosis. Dr. Perryman will suggest an appropriate course of treatment for your condition. Book your appointment online or by phone today.
