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Anal condyloma, or warts, occur in and around the anus. This condition is the result of exposure to human papillomavirus (HPV). Patients may experience several symptoms, including bleeding and itching of the affected area. There are multiple treatment options available, including surgical options.
Information About Anal Condyloma
What is Anal Condyloma or Anal Warts?
Anal condyloma is a condition that is also commonly described as anal warts. These warts emerge inside or around the anus and are typically a result of exposure to human papillomavirus, or HPV. This particular condition can sometimes go unnoticed due to the typical lack of discomfort experienced by patients with anal condyloma. Growths typically first emerge as very small, dome-shaped bumps, but these warts can quickly multiply and grow in size, forming clusters similar in appearance to cauliflower.
Patients that are at increased risk for anal condyloma include those who have had skin-to-skin contact with someone who has human papillomavirus, as well as those with weakened immune systems. Anal condyloma can be contagious, so treatment is necessary. Fortunately, treatment is available for patients with this condition, and our board-certified team is trained to diagnose and treat anal warts so that well-being and self-confidence can be restored.
Anal Condyloma Signs and Symptoms of Anal Warts
Symptoms of anal condyloma can vary significantly depending on the patient’s condition. Some patients may never notice symptoms, as anal warts can remain dormant in the body. For those that do experience symptoms, they can include soft, small lumps around or inside the anus, numerous lumps that can form clusters and vary in color, itching, bleeding, and leakage of discharge. Significant pain is typically not associated with this condition, but clusters of warts may become irritated and produce discomfort.
If anal condyloma is left untreated, the HPV virus that caused the warts may lead to more serious issues, such as cancer. Routine screening and treatment are essential for maintaining health and preventing the spread of the virus.
How to Prevent Anal Condyloma
Prevention of genital warts in the anal canal largely depends on limiting exposure to high-risk factors. Reducing the number of sexual partners, avoiding unprotected sex, and minimizing risky behaviors such as frequent anal intercourse can all lower the chances of developing condyloma. Because hpv infection is the root cause of anal warts diagnosed in many patients, vaccination with the hpv vaccine is one of the most effective steps in protection. The human papilloma virus is also linked to cervical cancer and anal cancer, highlighting the importance of prevention.
How Are Anal Warts Diagnosed
Internal anal warts can be diagnosed from a professional near you. Being attentive to the symptoms of anal warts in the anal or genital area and seeking medical evaluation can allow early care. When necessary, options like surgical removal or other surgical treatment may be recommended to manage persistent cases and help detect anal dysplasia before anal dysplasia diagnosed progresses to a more serious stage.
Anal Condyloma Treatment
Anal condyloma will require a diagnosis for treatment to be assigned by our surgeons. A physical examination will take place, during which the skin around the genitals and anus will be inspected. A pelvic exam may be necessary for people assigned female at birth. In some cases, a biopsy will be ordered to examine a small piece of tissue under a microscope for abnormalities.
Small anal warts that are located around the anus and are relatively small in size can typically be treated topically, rather than with a surgical procedure. These topical treatments are typically in the form of an ointment such as Imiquimod, Podophyllin, Podofilox, and Sinecatechins. Over-the-counter treatments for warts are not suitable for this area of the body, so do not use treatments outside of your doctor’s advice.
In some cases, warts can also be burned or frozen to be removed from the skin. Minor side effects, such as swelling and discomfort, may occur. Liquid nitrogen treatment, trichloroacetic acid, and electrocautery are methods used for removing warts topically.
In some cases, if the anal condyloma is more severe, inside the rectum, or if the warts are larger, surgery may be required. This procedure can typically be performed in the office, and patients are normally able to recover at home afterward. Local or general anesthesia may be used depending on the condition. A period of recovery should be expected. Your surgeon will collaborate with you to design an aftercare plan. If symptoms persist, contact us to discuss further options.
What to Expect After Anal Condyloma Treatment
After anal condyloma treatment, it is normal to experience some mild discomfort, swelling, or tenderness in the treated area as your body begins to heal. Your provider may recommend pain relievers, stool softeners, or warm baths to help ease these symptoms and promote comfort. It’s also important to follow aftercare instructions closely, which may include avoiding strenuous activity and practicing good hygiene to reduce the risk of infection. Recovery time can vary depending on the extent of treatment, but most patients are able to resume regular activities within a few days. Follow-up appointments are essential to monitor healing and ensure no new growths appear, as recurrence of anal condyloma is possible.