COLON & RECTAL

About Anal Condyloma

Condyloma acuminate are commonly known as warts. They arise from infection in the skin by a special type of virus (human papilloma virus). This virus is transmitted most often from sexual contact. The virus may live dormant in the skin so it may be transmitted from an infected individual even if they do not have warts themselves. Condoms do not protect against transmission of this virus. While anal intercourse is not always required for transmission, disruption of the lining of the anus from anal intercourse increases the changes of transmission.

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Diagnosis

Diagnosis requires evaluation by an experienced physician. The warts have a characteristic appearance and the diagnosis is usually made after a brief examination. The warts can extend into the inside of the anus, which may require evaluation with a short scope.

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Treatment for Condyloma

Warts do not necessarily need to be removed. Depending on their size, there are a number of various treatments including cutting, burning, freezing, etc. Some topical or injectable medications may also eradicate smaller warts (such as imiquimod or podophyllin).

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No one therapy is completely effective at complete eradication of warts. Because the virus lives in the skin and cannot be eliminated, there is a high chance of recurrence despite therapy. While there is a vaccine against the virus that causes the warts, it is not effective at treating the virus once infection has occured.

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For more information on condyloma, visit the American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons website