Condyloma

Condyloma are flesh-colored, pink, or light brown bumps that can appear on the genital or anal skin. They are caused by HPV infection, most commonly HPV-6 and HPV-11, which are considered low-risk and not the strains associated with cervical cancer or high-grade dysplasia.

These lesions can be:

• Smooth or cauliflower-like
• Flat or raised
• Singular or clustered
• Symptomatic (itching, irritation) or asymptomatic

HPV is extremely common. There is a high likelihood that sexually active adults will encounter it at some point, but many infections clear on their own. When the immune system does not fully eliminate the virus, condyloma may develop.

Condyloma spreads primarily through skin-to-skin contact, usually during vaginal, anal, or oral sexual activity. HPV transmission does not require intercourse and can occur even with condom use (though condoms reduce the risk).

Key points:

• Having condyloma does not imply infidelity or poor hygiene
• The incubation period, the time it takes from exposure to the virus to developing a genital wart yourself, can be weeks to many months, so pinpointing when HPV exposure occurred is challenging
• Many people carry HPV without ever developing visible warts

Diagnosis is typically made by a dermatologist through visual examination. In certain cases, especially when lesions are atypical, grow rapidly, or do not respond to treatment, a skin biopsy may be recommended to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other conditions.

There is no single “best” treatment. Therapy is tailored to the number of lesions, their location, patient preference, and likelihood of recurrence.  The treatment of condyloma often requires several regularly spaced visits until there is confidence that all lesions have been treated and no new ones are developing.  In most cases, more than one treatment is used simultaneously, as combined therapy is more effective than a single treatment approach.

In-Office Treatment Options

• Cryotherapy (Liquid Nitrogen Freezing) – first-line therapy that causes targeted destruction of the infected tissue.
  • Often an important part of the treatment regimen, including for those who prefer not to use topical prescriptions
• Shave removal – reserved for isolated or larger warts
  • Provides tissue for pathology
  • Typically a one-time procedure

At-Home Treatments

Various prescription medications are available, which are often used in conjunction with in-office cryotherapy for better clearance.  These exert their effect through different mechanism of action:

• Imiquimod – an immune response modifier used several times weekly
• Podofilox – a caustic topical cream that causes destruction of infected warty tissue
• Cidofovir – an antiviral medication that can be compounded to apply topically

At Vue Dermatology & Laser, you can expect:

• Private, non-judgmental care with a board-certified dermatologist
• Comprehensive treatment plans tailored to your individual circumstance
• Education around prevention, vaccine eligibility, and reducing recurrence
• A calm, respectful environment supporting your overall well-being