Feedback About wiseGEEK Login
Category: 
What Is Condyloma Acuminata?
Article Details
  • Written By: Jacob Queen
  • Edited By: Lauren Fritsky
  • Copyright Protected:
    2003-2012
    Conjecture Corporation
Free Widgets for your Site/Blog
The first ATM was built in London in 1967, and it could be used only to withdraw 10 British pounds.  more...

May 29 ,  1953 :  Edmund Hillary reached the top of Mount Everest.  more...

Condyloma acuminata is another term used to describe the sexually transmitted disease popularly known as genital warts. These are small warts that often form in a grouped pattern on the genitals, anus, or mouth. The condition is a symptom of the human papilloma virus (HPV). Condyloma acuminata is often painful, and it can be unattractive or embarrassing. There is also a serious risk of cancer for women who catch the virus.

Genital warts are relatively common compared to many other sexually transmitted diseases. The warts themselves will often burst if they are scratched or in response to friction. This causes them to drain, and the fluid that comes out of them is contagious. During sexual contact, there is often a lot of friction against these warts, and this can cause them to drain and spread the virus from one partner to another.

Women who suffer with condyloma acuminata have a higher chance of developing cervical cancer. If the warts are treated, this risk can be mitigated to some extent, but it is generally no guarantee. Condoms can reduce the spread of condyloma acuminata, but they aren’t foolproof. Sometimes the warts can appear in unprotected areas around the genitals, or the infectious fluid might leak out around the edges of the condom.

It is also possible for people to have warts inside the sexual organs. In these cases, they may spread the disease without the awareness of a risk. If a person has fewer sexual partners, he or she can lessen the chance of contracting the disease, though some people can be exposed without catching the disease if their immune systems are strong enough.

There are several possible treatments for condyloma acuminata. Many of them focus on removing the warts, which can be done using cryotherapy, electricity, or a scalpel. Some doctors may also prescribe antiviral drugs, or medicines to strengthen the immune system response. In some cases, patients can recover from the condition on their own. The severity of the condition will generally dictate what kinds of treatments doctors use.

There is a vaccination available for condyloma acuminata, which is used very frequently, especially for young females entering puberty. This is primarily designed to help avoid catching cervical cancer. Some doctors also recommend giving this vaccination to young men to help decrease the overall frequency of the virus. The general idea is to give the vaccine to teenagers prior to the start of their sexual activity.

Related Videos

Discuss this Article

Post your comments

Post Anonymously

Login

username
password
forgot password?
or connect with facebook

Register

username
password
confirm
email