What are Anal Warts?
Anal warts (“condyloma acuminata”) are thought to be caused by human papilloma virus which is considered a sexually transmitted disease. It affects the area around and inside the anus and may also affect skin of the genital area. It first appears as tiny spots or growths, and may grow larger.
Usually, they do not cause pain and remain unnoticed. Some patients will experience symptoms such as itching, bleeding, mucus discharge and/or a feeling of a lump or mass in the anal area.
If they are not removed, the warts usually grow larger and multiply. If left untreated, the warts may lead to an increased risk of cancer in the affected area. Recurrent warts are common. The virus that causes the warts can live concealed in tissues that appear normal for several months before another wart develops.
What Treatments Are Available?
- If warts are very small and are located only on the skin around the anus, they may be treated with a topical medication or liquid nitrogen. Warts may be removed surgically.
- Warts inside the anal canal usually need to be treated surgically.
- Follow-up visits are necessary at frequent intervals for several months after the last wart is observed to be certain that no new warts occur.
