Genital Warts

Anogenital warts (AGWs) are the most prevalent sexually transmitted viral infections in the United States of America. Symptomatic warts can be seen in nearly 1% of the population aged 15 to 49 years. Genital warts are highly contagious through sexual contact. AGWs can be diagnosed by careful visual inspection. Several methods have been described for the treatment of warts; however, all have their own limitations and are not always successful. Warts often recur even after being completely removed. The treatments of warts can be divided into two broad categories, ie, surgical and nonsurgical methods. The patient himself/herself can apply the nonsurgical methods, or a physician can perform it. Podophyllotoxin is a good medical substance. Imiquimod can act as an immune response modifier and stimulate locally produced cytokine. Topical treatments of warts increase local production of interferon and decrease viral load of human papiloma virus (HPV). The surgical methods for genital warts include curettage, electrosurgery, and application of a scalpel under general or local anesthesia. Scattered keratinized lesions can be removed by electrosurgery. Patients with multiple or large warts of any location should be referred for surgical treatment under general anesthesia.