STD Treatments

Little is known about the transmission of HPV. Risk factors for acquiring the virus include numerous sexual partners, frequent sexual intercourse, and the presence of warts in a co infected sexual partner. Men have been found to have an increased risk developing venereal warts if they fail to wear condoms. Although condoms reduce the transmission of HPV, their use it does not eliminate it completely.

Warts are clinically apparent as flesh colored papules that erupt on the skin of the genital or perianal area. They can range in size from 1 mm in diameter to very large growths. One-third of women with external venereal warts also have internal vaginal and/or rectal warts, and, thus, need a gynecologic exam. Venereal warts usually do not have any symptoms, but can occasionally they can bleed or cause pain.

As mentioned above, treatment can be a difficult process. The most effective treatment modalities include liquid nitrogen which causes inflammation and the body to control and sequester the wart virus. Other therapeutic modalities include: surgical excision, laser treatment or acid. The choice of treatment utilized should be decided by the provider and the patient because there are several factors such as number and size of lesions which come into play. The newest treatment option for HPV is a drug called Imiquimod (Aldara™). Imiquimod is formulated as a topical cream preparation. It is designed to stimulate one’s immune system by stimulating the chemical protein known as interferon alpha, which has a negative effect on HPV. Initial studies have shown that this treatment is effective in 30% to 50% of patients. Imiquimod has been found to work better in women than in men. Please remember that many treatments are sometimes necessary for HPV control and that recurrence rate is high. Hopefully, in the near future we shall, see an effective cure. Currently, there is also a vaccine which is recommended for young female patents. Gardisil™ is a vaccine indicated in girls and women 9 to 26 years of age for the prevention of cervical cancer, precancerous or dysplastic lesions, and genital warts caused by human papillomavirus (HPV) Types 6, 11, 16, and 18

Many of the modalities discussed above do cause temporary discomfort, i.e., redness, blistering, pain, can be seen. Recurrences occur most frequently during the first three months after therapy has been initiated. As previously mentioned, infected women, should have a full pelvic and cervical examination, because they have an increased risk of carcinoma of the cervix. Men should be examined for dysplasia (precancer or cancer) of the penis. Transmission of HPV during pregnancy may occur in infants who can, if mom has active disease during delivery, can acquire HPV virus in their throat and genital area without a previous history of sexual abuse.

Yes, because of the slight increased risk of cancer which can occur in both females and males. Examination of previous partners is advised. Education is the only way to reduce the risk of spreading HPV to other people. Because the HPV virus can lie dormant for many years, there is no way to know which sex partner gave you the infection. It is, therefore, sometimes difficult to try to blame a particular partner for giving you the infection. Remember the following:

• Refrain from sexual activity until three negative check ups are performed. Condoms are not completely protective.
• An OB/GYN Evaluation or Pap Smear to look for atypical cells
• Biopsy non responding lesions
• Regular follow up visits every two to four weeks to optimize your chances for wart eradication.