Other names: Condiloma, genital warts.
Microorganism responsible: Human papillomavirus (HPV). It can be associated with other viruses such as herpes. It affects the skin or membrane generally on and around the genitals and the anus, leading to soft warty formations.
Means of transmission: genital, anal, oral.
Incubation period: Around 3 months.
Symptoms: Presence of warts, generally in the shape of different-sized cauliflowers, gathered in bunches around the genitals, the urethra, scrotum, anus or the area around same. Ulcers may also be present. Itching sensation of the penis, scrotum or anus. Sometimes there are no symptoms in evidence.
Prevention: sexual abstinence. Monogamous practice with uninfected person. Use of condom during the entire sexual activity with anyone who may be infected.
Diagnosis: Physical examination. Impregnation with acetic acid of the suspected areas where there are no evident lesions will show whitish areas which correspond to the lesions that have yet to develop.
Treatment: The person affected and all those with whom sexual relations may have been maintained, must be treated with medication which is applied topically. Occasionally minor surgery may be required to remove or cauterise lesions.