Due to the delicacy of the problem, warts are often not paid due attention, hoping that it will go away on its own. In vain. The sooner you come to the doctor, the easier it is to get rid of the problem.
Answers to questions of interest were given by Andrey Gamotsky, dermatovenereologist-dermatooncologist at the CALM clinic.
Andrey Gamotsky, dermatovenereologist-dermatooncologist
Condylomas are neoplasms of a viral nature, which are located in the genital areas of both men and women. Their causative agent is the human papillomavirus (HPV), unfortunately, its carrier is a huge number of people. Modern dermatologists call the virus a ubiquitous scourge. Clinically, warts look like embossed, villous growths of flesh or pink color. Often visually they are compared with cauliflower. A sort of reef protrusion in the intimate area.
What provokes the appearance of genital warts?
The human papillomavirus enters the body through microdamages of the skin or visible mucous membranes. It seeps into the places of cuts, scratches, friction or any other, even a small, invisible injury to the eye — and contributes to the excessive growth of the papillary layer of cells, which ultimately leads to the formation of condylomas directly. Of course, the background of reduced immunity contributes to the development of viral neoplasms. Stress, lack of sleep, chronic fatigue and concomitant diseases are the big “friends” of HPV,
Are warts and papillomas the same thing?
In fact, warts are a type of papillomas. Just, relatively speaking, like warts, is a clinical manifestation of HPV. But the scientific literature often indicates that condylomas, unlike classical papillomas, are located exclusively in the intimate area, are sexually transmitted and are related to sexually transmitted diseases. It is important to understand that a condom can not always protect against infection. Why? Because the area of contact of the bodies is much wider, and friction or contact of the skin, especially shaved (micro cuts from shaving), is a direct way of transmitting the virus.
How dangerous is HPV?
The lion’s share of papillomas is a purely aesthetic defect. They cause inconvenience, but, as a rule, they do not turn into anything terrible. In other words, if it is comfortable and convenient for a person to walk with growths on the skin, then one can live with them.
However, there is a certain percentage of highly oncogenic strains. They are not at all harmless and can cause cervical dysplasia, with the prospect of further degeneration into a dangerous process. No matter how experienced the doctor is, it is almost impossible to determine by eye which of the warts is dangerous and which is not. Therefore, it is advisable not to walk around with them for a long time, but still come to the doctor, get tested and get rid of neoplasms.
Is it true that you can’t get rid of HPV?
Yes. A really effective vaccine has not yet been invented, because the only thing that is in our power is to remove certain manifestations of HPV and strengthen the immune system. It is not yet possible to cure HPV, but it is possible to keep it under control.
Are warts a signal of possible cervical cancer?
Yes it is. Condylomas are the first wake-up call. They are a consequence of infection. Not only are they a consequence of infection, they are a marker of reduced immunity and, to one degree or another, a harbinger of dysplasia and subsequent malignancy.
Which strains of HPV are safe and which are oncogenic?
It makes no sense to list highly oncogenic and safe strains, there are about fifteen of them. Having passed the analysis, you can find out exactly which strains are in the body. All modern laboratories carefully schematize and compile columns — which categories of strains were isolated from the patient.
For example, in 70% of cases, two types of HPV are the cause of cervical cancer (16 and 18). That is, they are the most common today.
What is the safest way to remove warts, because the area is still delicate?
First, it is safest to remove small warts. Therefore, it is worth repeating once again: do not wait for the weather by the sea, do not delay! The larger the neoplasm, the more likely the trace, relapse and prolonged painful healing.
In any case, the laser is the favorite in choosing a technique for removing genital warts. It guarantees a clear control of the depth of exposure, the absence of capture of healthy tissue, and painlessness. And, importantly, the laser turns the condyloma into a flat and dry crust. And this is important, since the zone is subject to debate, sweating, and open, weeping wounds heal very problematic.
Is it possible to prevent the appearance of genital warts?
Of course, the best prevention is steel immunity. Not a single infection will have a chance if a person is healthy in body and spirit, gets enough sleep, is stress-resistant, eats fresh and right foods! Moderate physical activity has never been superfluous. As for the condylomas directly, which are mainly transmitted sexually, then contraception will help, although this is not 100% protection.
And, of course, regular, at least once a year, examinations by a dermatologist, as a result of which you can see the disease at an early, almost imperceptible stage for the patient.
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