Genital warts - Health & Medicine

American Fitness, March-April, 2002 by Philip J. Maguire

Genital warts may be the most common sexually transmitted disease today. According to the Center for Disease Control, there are 500,000 new cases each year and the rate is increasing! Genital warts are caused by the Human Papilloma virus (HPV). The virus is transferred from skin to skin and is often present in the absence of visible skin changes. Therefore, it can be transmitted from a person who is not even aware they harbor the virus.

The disease causes wart-like growths on, in and around the genitals. Left untreated, some warts can infect the cervix and ultimately result in pre-cancerous conditions. Patients should regularly examine their genitals, not only by looking, but also feeling the skin. Being familiar with the texture and appearance of the genitals enables one to detect subtle irregularities. PAP smears are also helpful in detecting this viral infection.

Although the HPV virus has no current cure, there are treatment modalities available. Lasers are a safe and essentially painless method, though more expensive. Electrodesiccation (burning) and cryotherapy (freezing) are also productive techniques for removing warts, although trichloroacetic acid and podophyllin, are the most commonly used methods of treatment. These chemicals essentially etch away the lesions, thus being very painful. A new form of podophyllin called "podofilex" (Condylox Oclassen) is now available. This product allows patients to treat themselves. Studies indicate a success rate as high as 80 percent with its use. It is safe, private, has a high degree of efficacy and there are no expensive office visits.

With the prevalence of 24 million people in the United States presently carrying the HPV virus, the chances of encountering it are high. So it is encouraging to find a new, safe and effective treatment.