Human Papillomavirus
by Steven Swenson, Joseph Setyon, and Sal Salerno
by Steven Swenson, Joseph Setyon, and Sal Salerno
Treatment of Genital Warts
There are several medications that can be used to treat some of the symptoms of Human papillomavirus, especially genital warts
The first step in treatment is often topical medicine that can be applied directly to the skin
At home, there are different options to choose from, including:
The first step in treatment is often topical medicine that can be applied directly to the skin
At home, there are different options to choose from, including:
- Imiquimod (Aldara)
- Podofilox lotion or gel (Condylox)
While treatment from a doctor may be more expensive, it also offers efficiency, removing the warts more quickly
Doctors may perscribe the following medications:
o Trichloroacetic acid (TCA) or bichloroacetic acid (BCA)
o Podophyllin resin (Podofin)
o Intralesional interferon
o Fluorouracil (Efudex, Fluoroplex)
Medical professionals may also use various techniques such as:
- Cyrotherapy- the freezing of warts with liquid nitrogen
- Surgical Removal- removing the skin cells using a scalpel
- Electrocautery- the burning of warts with an electrical current
While surgical removal may cure the problem in a single visit, the other methods have success rates that measure from 80% to 90%
Cryotherpay
Electrocautery
Women who are pregnant must take caution when seeking treatment. In general, TCA and BCA have proven to be effective and safe, while Podophyllin resin, interferon, and fluorouracil may be harmful to the fetus
It is important to note that medications are not used to treat abnormal cell changes found on a Pap test
Always consult a doctor before beginning any treatment or medication
Page Created by Steven Swenson
