Anal and Peri-Anal Warts

 

What are Anal Warts?

Anal warts (condylomas) are small skin-colored or pink-colored growths or spots in or around the anus. These growths can become large and cover the entire anal area.
 
“ The word “condyloma” comes from the Greek word meaning “knob.” Any knob-like or warty growth on the genitals is known as a condyloma. The warts in HPV infection are called as condyloma acuminata or codyloma Acuminatum (while warts like growth in secondary syphilis is called as condyloma lata which can be confused with presentation of condyloma acuminata8).

Anal warts are one of the most common sexually transmitted infections in world. They are caused by a small DNA virus, a papillomavirus belonging to the papovavirus group, which cannot be cultured. Genital warts differ from skin warts histologically and antigenically. Genital warts are nearly always
transmitted by sexual contact; autoinoculation from hand to genitals is unusual. The infectivity of sexually acquired warts is about 60%; the incubation period is long, varying from two weeks to eight months.

Four distinct sub-types of Ano-genital warts have been described: condylomata acuminata (pointed warts), flat / macular lesions, papular, and keratotic lesions. The first two sub-types are mainly found on moist, non-keratinized epithelia, while the latter two usually present on keratinized epidermis. Ano-genital warts are also often referred to as genital warts, condylomata acuminata or genital verruca.

Anal/ peri-anal/ Ano-genital warts are highly infectious; approximately 65% of individuals with an infected partner develop the lesions within 3 weeks and 8 months after exposure, the median time between infection with HPV types 6 or 11 and the development of warts was 11 to 12 months among males and 5 to 6 months among young females. In rare cases, Ano-genital warts can be associated with malignant lesions, namely Buschke-Lowenstein tumors.

 

 

 Multiple Peri-anal warts (Condyloma acuminata)

 

Multiple Peri-anal warts (Condyloma acuminata)

 

 

Diagrammatic representation of Anal Warts is shown below

 

Diagram showing warts in the Anal canal and peri-anal skin (Also Anal verge)

 

 

Peri-anal and Anal Warts (Diagramatic) 

 

 

Peri-anal and Anal Warts (Diagramatic)

 

 

 

Symptoms of Anal Warts

Anal warts are a commonly transmitted sexual infection among young adults. It is a painless condition and most are unaware as there are no symptoms. There is a common complain of anal itching. Tiny spots or growths can be seen and also can be felt with fingers. When they become large, one may feel a lump or mass in the anal area. The other symptoms noticed in anal or peri-anal warts are bleeding or increased mucus discharge. pain, itching, burning, irritation, 

The infection with Human papilloma virus (HPV) can cause emotional and psychological problems with the person which includes shame, embarrassment, anger, depression and guilt. Since the Anal and Peri-anal warts are caused by ano-receptive sex, they are either not reported early either due to non-visualization or due to shame/guilt. The lesions can be handled easily when they are reported early. Presence of peri-anal lesions can cause cessation of sexual activity of patients, either through fear of transmission or embarrassment of lesions.

 

Causes of Anal warts

Anal warts are caused by a virus called the human papilloma virus (HPV).
HPV is one of the most common sexually transmitted disease (STD). There are more than 100 different types of HPV, which can infect and cause growth of warts in the different parts of the body. More than 90% of cases of peri-anal warts are caused by Human Papilloma Virus types 6 and 11. These two types do not cause cancer. It is not necessary to have an anal receptive intercourse to develop anal warts. HPV can transmit through direct contact exposure to the anal area (hand contact, secretions from a sexual partner) resulting in anal warts. Usually it takes months to develop anal warts after a HPV infection. The transmission of HPV does not necessitate clinical lesions to be present.
 

Cutaneous (skin) HPV types

Most HPV types are called cutaneous because they cause warts on the skin, such as on the arms, chest, hands, and feet. These are common warts, not genital warts.

 

Mucosal (Genital or Anogenital) HPV types

The other HPV types are considered mucosal types because they invade and live in cells on mucosal surfaces. The mucosal HPV types are also called genital (or anogenital) HPV types because they often affect the anal and genital area. These types can also infect the lining of the mouth and throat.   Mucosal HPV types generally don’t grow in the skin or parts of the body other than the mucosal surfaces but can involve anal and perianal skin surface as shown in the picture below. Mucosal (genital) HPV is spread mainly by direct skin-to-skin contact during vaginal, oral, or anal sexual activity. It’s not spread through blood or body fluids. It can be spread even when an infected person has no visible signs or symptoms.

  

Click for large image

Low-risk mucosal (genital) HPV types: HPV types that tend to cause warts and rarely cause cancer are called low-risk types. Low-risk genital HPV infection can cause cauliflower-shaped warts on or around the genitals and anus of both men and women. In women, warts may appear in areas that aren’t always noticed, such as the cervix and vagina.

 

High-risk mucosal (genital) HPV types: HPV types that can cause cancer are called high-risk types. These types have been linked to certain cancers in both men and women. Doctors worry about the cell changes and pre-cancers these types cause because they are more likely to grow into cancers over time6.

 
There is proven role of Human papilloma virus (HPV) is an etiologic factor in the development of penile cancer, penile intraepithelial neoplasia (PIN), anal cancer, and anal intraepithelial neoplasia (AIN).

Anyone who has had sexual contact can get HPV, even if it was only with only one person, but infections are more likely in people who have had many sex partners. 

The virus can also be spread by genital contact without sex, but this is not common. Oral-genital and hand-genital spread of some genital HPV types have been reported. And there may be other ways to become infected with HPV that aren’t yet clear.

You DO NOT get HPV from:

  • Toilet seats
  • Hugging or holding hands
  • Swimming in pools or hot tubs
  • Sharing food or utensils
  • Being unclean

Transmission from mother to newborn during birth is rare, but it can happen, too. When it does, it can cause warts (papillomas) in the infant’s breathing tubes (trachea and bronchi) and lungs, which is called respiratory papillomatosis. These papillomas can also grow in the voice box, which is called laryngeal papillomatosis. Both of these infections can cause life-long problems.

 

 

Risk Factors of Anal Warts

  • Multiple sexual partners
  • Anal receptive intercourse
  • Not using barrier contraceptives, such as condoms

 

 

Prevention of Anal Warts

Human papillomavirus vaccine is available that prevents the HPV infection and formation of anal warts.

Other preventive measures include:

  • Using condoms
  • Limiting sexual contact to a single partner
  • Sexual abstinence

Condoms can offer some protection from HPV infection, but HPV might be on skin that’s not covered by the condom. And condoms must be used every time, from start to finish. The virus can spread during direct skin-to-skin contact before the condom is put on, and male condoms don’t protect the entire genital area, especially for women. The female condom covers more of the vulva in women, but hasn’t been studied as carefully for its ability to protect against HPV. Condoms are very helpful, though, in protecting against other infections that can be spread through sexual activity.

It’s usually not possible to know who has a mucosal HPV infection, and HPV is so common that even using these measures doesn’t guarantee that a person won’t get infected, but they can help lower the risk 10.

 

Anogenital warts can now be effectively prevented using the quadrivalent (HPV 6, 11, 16 and 18) or nanovalent (HPV 6, 11, 16, 18, 31, 33, 45, 52 and 58) HPV vaccines; these protect against HPV types that cause anal/peri-anal/anogenital warts, cervical cancer and other types of anogenital and oral cancer. The Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) quadrivalent vaccine has shown to be up to 100% effective in preventing AGW in association with vaccine‐type HPV in women. The vaccine is also effective in 12‐ to 15‐year‐old boys and is licensed for use in both sexes. Evidence on whether the vaccination could be useful in anogenital warts treatment is not yet clear; however, there are scientific data supporting use of the vaccination in individuals previously exposed to HPV.

Click here for more details about HPV Vaccine 

 

Complications of Anal Warts

Anal warts are not life-threatening. If untreated, anal warts increase in size and can cause bleeding and discomfort. The risk of anal cancer also increases with some HPV subtypes 16 and 18. The risk of anal cancer is about 17 times higher in sexually active gay and bisexual men than in men who have sex only with women. Men who have HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) are also at higher risk of getting this cancer. Most cancers that are found in the back of the throat, including at the base of the tongue and in the tonsils, are HPV related due to oral sex.

 

Oral HPV infections - those persons doing oral sex like sucking and licking the sexual organs (cunnilingus/ fellatio/ anilingus/ rimming)  can develop oral HPV infections involving the oral cavity, throat, palate, tonsils and tongue. These HPV infections over long time can cause oral and throat cancers.

 

Diagnosis of Anal Warts

A detailed history regarding the sexual practices, anal receptive intercourse, and previous history of sexual transmitted diseases will be taken. Warts are diagnostic on appearance. Anal / peri-anal warts appear as papillomatous plaques or flat lesions and can be single or multiple in number. Lesions vary from flesh‐coloured to white, pink or brown. They typically manifest in areas of the body that are in close contact during sex: mainly on the anogenital areas such as vulva, penis, groin, perineum, perianal skin, Anal canal but also in the oral cavity (in case of oral sex). Diagnosis of clinically typical and does not require histological confirmation. DRE - Digital rectal examination is a must in Anal and Peri-anal warts to rule out intra-anal and rectal warts.

Proctoscopy is also performed to look for anal / rectal warts. In women, vaginal examination is important to rule out vaginal warts.
 
Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for diagnosis of different HPV genotypes can be done by HPV fluid test in females or by lesion / wart biopsy in males.
 
There is no routine test for men to check for high-risk Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) strains that can cause cancer. However, and  anal Pap tests for gay and bisexual men can be done, who are at higher risk of anal cancer caused by HPV. In an anal Pap test, is done just like PAP test in females, wherein a spatula / brush is passed over anal canal and the cells isolated are sent for smear examination for any risk of malignant change.
 
Differential diagnoses that need to be excluded include normal skin variations (e.g. pearly penile papules, parafrenular glands, Fordyce spots, vestibular papillae, sebaceous cysts), other infectious or inflammatory conditions and other papules (syphilis on mucosal plates, molluscum contagiosum, lichen planus, psoriasis, condyloma lata) and benign or malignant neoplastic lesions (papillomatoses of vulva, nevi, verrucous carcinoma, invasive carcinoma, seborrhoeic keratosis, Bowen's disease, Buschke‐Löwenstein disease, pigmented or unpigmented grade 2–3 intraepithelial neoplasia, lymphangioma).

 

Patients should be reassured that if they have developed anal/ peri-anal / Ano-genital warts, appropriate treatment can clear the warts within 3 months. The anal/peri-anal lesions are of mostly sexual origin and are caused by Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) which is contagious; therefore, it is important for patients to disclose their recent sexual partners, who should be advised examination to rule out Human papilloma virus (HPV) infection. The smokers have a 27% increased risk of developing anal/peri-anal (ano-genital) warts as compared with non‐smokers. The HPV prevalence in patients who smoke is 48.2% compared with 37.5% for non‐smokers (P < 0.001). Generally, warts develop within weeks or months after acquiring Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) infection but in a significant number of cases, the virus can be dormant for months or years before warts emerge.

 

HPV Screening Through Anal Cytology

Though there is no guidelines for anal screening for HPV or anal cytology for anal cancer lesion (precancerous or abnormal anal canal cytology) but there is benefit if getting the anal Cytology for Anal cancer screening (similar to cervical cancer screening), using anal cytology (through canal brush cytology) followed by referral of patients with abnormal results to high-resolution anoscopy and subsequent treatment of biopsy-proved AIN (Anal canal Cancer in situ), may prevent the development of anal cancer.

The reported sensitivity and specificity of anal cytology relative to findings at biopsy (sensitivity, 69%-93%; specificity, 32%-59%, respectively) are similar to findings in studies comparing cervical cytology and cervical biopsy for the prevention of cervical cancer. There is definitive benefit to do annual anal cytology for MSM (men having sex with men) and any HIV-positive patients with a history of anogenital condylomas. Among patients with HIV- or HPV-related lesions, histologic signs of dysplasia are apparent in more than one-fifth of those who undergo testing. Among HIV-positive MSM (men having sex with men), the positive predictive value of abnormal anal cytology to predict anal dysplasia is approximately 95%.

Anal cytology can distinguish between the various stages of Anal Intra-epithelial neoplasia (AIN) 9.

  • Low-grade dysplastic cellular changes (AIN 1).
  • severe dysplasia (AIN 2)
  • Severe dysplasia and cancerous changes but no invasion (AIN 3), also known as carcinoma in situ, is diagnosed when 50% of the epithelial tissue is replaced with abnormal dysplastic cells.

 

Buschke–Lowenstein Tumor - Buschke–Lowenstein tumor, often called giant condyloma accuminatum, is considered by some authors as intermediate between condyloma and squamous cell carcinoma. Histologically, the tumor appears benign with papillomatosis, epithelial hyperplasia, and koilocytosis, but clinically it can behave aggressively with extensive infiltration. Typically, it is slow growing in immunocompetent individuals, but it can grow rapidly in immunocompromised individuals. Focally, these tumors can transform into invasive carcinoma; hence, early diagnosis and treatment is crucial. Common treatment approach includes radical surgical resection with tumor-free resection margins. Prophylactic HPV vaccination has been shown to reduce HPV6/11 infection and anogenital condylomata and thus is expected to prevent this tumor12, 13, 14.

 

Technique of anal Cytology for collecting the specimen

The goal of anal cytology is to identify patients with cellular changes in the epithelial cells that line the anal canal; any patients with atypia are then referred to undergo high-resolution anoscopy. No specific preparation is necessary before anal cytology, though patients should be instructed to refrain from receptive anal sex and enemas for 24 hours before testing. If a digital rectal examination is performed in conjunction with anal cytology, the cytologic sample must be obtained before lubrication is introduced into the anal canal. The standard technique used in obtaining anal cytologic specimens involves inserting a water-moistened Dacron swab into the anal canal to above the squamocolumnar transition zone, approximately 2 cm (1 inch) from the anal verge. While mild external pressure is applied to the anal wall, the swab is gently manipulated in a craniocaudal and circular motion within the canal. After several rotations, the swab should be withdrawn and immediately immersed in methanol-based preservative-transport solution.

 

High Resolution Anoscopy by high powered microscope (Anoscope / colposcope) for screening for intra-epithelial tumors of anal canal

The patient is put in jack knife position to expose anal canal. The anal canal is opened by inserting a Anal retractor (Czerny rectal speculum)

   

The anal canal is then screened segment by segment. The anal skin is treated with acetic acid 3% to see any aceto-white lesions and then treated with Lugol's iodine. Any area that does not take up the iodine is suspcious area and biopsy is taken from that area.

 

For more information about Pre-cancerous lesions of Anal Canal, Anal Intra-epithelial Carcinoma and Anal Cancer Click here

 

Treatment of Anal Warts

Treatment options include patient-applied (home-based) chemical treatments (podofilox, imiquimod), physician applied (office-based) chemical treatments (podophyllin, trichloracetic acid, interferon, green tea extract) and ablative treatments (cryotherapy, surgical removal, laser treatment). The main limitation of current therapies is the high recurrence rate after initial remission. The quadrivalent HPV vaccine demonstrated high efficacy in preventing the onset of HPV 6/11-related Ano-genital Warts in both males and females.

Treatment options are:

  • Topical medicines – putting cream or a liquid on to the warts (trichlorocetic acid, podophyllin, imiquimod).
  • Ablative techniques: Freezing (cryotherapy using liquid nitrogen), Electro-cautery (under local anaesthesia), Laser ablation (under local anaesthesia)
  • Surgical excision
  • Immuno-modulation

 

Untreated anal warts may grow and increase in size. It is, therefore, better to treat them and remove them. The treatment will depend on the size, number, and location of warts. For small warts. Untreated anal warts may grow and increase in size. It is, therefore, better to treat them and remove them. The treatment will depend on the size, number, and location of warts. 

Treatment should be individualized for each patient. Although untreated warts can resolve spontaneously, most patients want an immediate intervention to eradicate them. Treatments need to be selected on the basis of considerations such as the number, size, morphology, location and keratinization of warts, and whether they are new or recurrent.

 

Ablative techniques

Ablative techniques are commonly used to remove warts. The major frustration is the high rate of recurrence with these treatments and the need for repeat therapeutic interventions. Ablative techniques are associated with a risk of bleeding, tissue destruction, slow wound healing and scarring

 

Treatment Mode of action Schedule Clearance rate (%) Recurrence rate (%) Advantages Disadvantages
Ablative Techniques
             
Electrocautery High‐frequency electrical currents cause thermal damage to infected tissue Under local anaesthesia, base of lesion excised; repeat as required

90%

(Range:35–94%)

20%

(Range:20-25%)

90%

High recurrence rate is used alone but with immunomodulator creams the results are more than 90% remission rate

Repeat physician visits

Expertise required

Smoke evacuator needed
             
CO2 and Nd:YAG laser Laser vaporizes lesions Under local anaesthesia, protocol depends on type of laser

90%

(Range:23–95%)

 70%

(Range:2.5–77%)

Rapid results

Effective for thick lesions

High recurrence rate; in some cases even before healing of laser treatment

Costly

Substantial training & Expertise required

Pain/scarring

Smoke evacuator needed
             

 

 

Electrocautery or Cautery

Electrocautery uses high‐frequency electrical currents to destroy anal / peri-anal / anogenital lesions and requires local anaesthesia. Clinical studies have shown clearance rates of 35–94%.  As fumes from electrocautery contain contagious particles, preventative measures should be put in place to stop the virus spreading.

Electrofulgration/ electrocautery - will generate smoke/fumes which may contain human papillomavirus (HPV) particles that may be transmitted to the operator who breaths in or comes into contact with the fume15, 16, 17, 18. When working with HPV-related lesions, minimise the risk of transmission by -

  • Use smoke evacuator with intake nozzle 2 cm from operative site

  • Wear surgical mask (N95 is most effective) and eye protection.

 

 

Management of Ano-genital warts - part 2

Fulguration of Warts

Click here to watch this video of Fulgration of Warts on youtube

 

Management of Ano-genital warts - part 4

Fulgration of Intra-anal warts and peri-anal warts is demonstrated 

Click here to watch this video of management of Intra-anal warts on youtube

 

Laser ablation

Carbon dioxide (CO2) and Nd:YAG lasers, Argon Laser or other laser energies vaporize lesions using focused light energy; however, it is not always possible to know the extent of the infected tissue, and therefore, vaporizing large regions around the warts is not always feasible. Local anaesthesia is usually required, especially on extensive and thick lesions as it can penetrate deeply into the lesions. This treatment option is used less frequently than other therapies as it requires specialized and costly equipment, and has an increased risk of serious complications.  However, clearance rates of up to 95% have been reported in clinical studies, with a head‐to‐head comparison. It is important to note that fumes from laser treatment contain contagious particles and adequate measures should be taken to prevent the virus from spreading15, 16, 17, 18. Masks and smoke evacuators should therefore be used.

 

 

Spread of Human papilloma virus with surgical smoke15, 16, 17, 18

Surgical smoke is the gaseous byproduct generated by surgical procedures and tools, including electrocautery devices, laser ablation, and ultrasonic scalpels, as a result of the thermal decomposition of tissues. There is substantial evidence indicating the presence of numerous chemicals, blood and tissue particles, viruses, bacteria, and even tumor cells in surgical smoke. HPV DNA could be isolated from the smoke plume of papilloma virus infected warts treated with lasers. There are also reported cases of surgeons treating the ano-genital warts developing laryngeal papillomatosis
after administering laser therapy to patients with anogenital condylomas due to HPV infection which was confirmed by in situ DNA hybridization
of the doctor’s laryngeal papilloma tissues which revealed HPV types 6 and 11, similar to those found in the patients. There are also case reports of surgeons / Gynaecologists developing tonsillar cancer / tongue caners which were HPV - 16 positive after managing ano-genital warts for many years.

After surgical fulgration by electro-cautery / laser, HPV DNA can be detected in the nasal samples of the surgeons after inhalation of surgical smoke.

The HPV DNA in the surgical plume is infectious and thus potentially harmful to healthcare professionals. It is recommended that the diligent use of high-filtration masks, in addition to smoke evacuation systems, by surgeons managing ano-genital warts.

 

Surgical Management of Anal warts

 
Surgery is considered when anal warts are large or are located in the internal anus where it is difficult to apply local creams. Surgery is performed using scissors or scalpel and is particularly suited for removing large lesions causing obstruction. It can be done as an outpatient basis under local anaesthesia. (no admission is required). Though surgery is usually performed under local anesthesia but general anesthesia or spinal anesthesia may be given if warts are extensive. Clearance rates of up to 93% have been reported in clinical studies after surgical excision5.
 
In too extensive warts around anus with destruction of the anal skin or if there are dysplastic changes in the skin around anus with long standing warts (condyloma Acuminata) then one can go for excision of the skin with skin grafts or skin rotation flaps around anus7.
 
 
 
 
 

This is the clip showing surgical excision of the

Giant anal Warts (condyloma Acuminata) 

 

Click here to see this video of surgical excision of

Giant Anal warts (condyloma Acuminata) on youtube

 

Another case of Giant Condyloma Acuminata 

Giant anal warts - Surgical Removal with fulgration

 

 

 

Topical Application Therapy


Treatment Mode of action Schedule Clearance rate (%) Recurrence rate (%) Advantages Disadvantages
Topical therapy
             
Trichloroacetic acid (33–50%) Acid induces a chemical burn

Applied directly to lesions;

repeat One to three times per week

  95%

(Range: 70 - 100%)

35%

(Range: 18-36%)

Rapid results

suitable for small lesions

High recurrence rate

Intense burning sensation
             
Podophyllotoxin 0.5% (alcoholic solution) 0.15% (cream) Antimitotic agent induces tissue necrosis Twice‐daily to affected areas for 3 consecutive days per week; discontinue for 4 days; repeat for up to 4 weeks

90%

(Range:45–95%)

100%

(Range:11-100%)

Easy self‐application

Very High recurrence rate

Complicated regimen

Intense application site reactions
             

 

Trichloroacetic acid (TCA; 33–50%)

Physician‐applied acidic treatment causes a chemical burn that destroys the Anal / peri-anal / ano-genital warts. The acid can be administered up to three times per week until the warts have cleared. This process requires a skilled professional to choose the appropriate lesion and duration of application but it is easy to apply and effective treatment. It has clearance rates of 70–100% reported in clinical studies. However, side‐effects such as local discomfort, burning and ulceration are common, hence the need for careful application. 

 

Podophyllotoxin 0.15% cream or 0.5% alcoholic solution

Podophyllotoxin stops division of infected cells causing tissue necrosis. It can be self‐applied by patients twice‐daily for three consecutive days, separated by a 4‐day treatment‐free period and repeated for up to 4 weeks. Patients need to carefully apply the solution to the lesions and avoid contact with healthy skin. Clearance rates from clinical studies range from 45 to 94%, with common side‐effects including pain, itching, burning, erosion and inflammation4.

 

 
 

Immunotherapies

 
Immunotherapies use stimulation of the body's own immune system to clear infected lesions.
 

Imiquimod 5% or 3.75%

Imiquimod is an immune response modifier with antiviral activity. This Toll‐like receptor 7 agonist induces the production of cytokines, which enhance the ability of antigen presenting cells to present viral antigens to reactive T lymphocytes. Imiquimod 5% has been approved for the treatment of anal/perianal/anogenital warts worldwide. Imiquimod 5% is self‐applied by the patient three nights per week for up to 16 weeks; if no improvement has occurred after 4–6 weeks, treatment can be applied daily. Imiquimod 5% may be applied for longer durations if there is a good clinical result but complete clearance has not occurred at the end of the initial treatment period. Imiquimod formulations are associated with local skin reactions such as erythema, pruritus, burning, pain and sometimes erosions. These are all signs that the immune system has been activated.  Clearance rates from clinical studies range from 35 to 75% with the 5% cream, with higher clearance rates in women than men.

Imiquimod is an immune response modifier that has potent antitumour and antiviral activity. It induces interferon-á, interleukin 1 (IL-1), and tumour necrosis factor á (TNF-á) in peripheral blood, and human keratinocytes exposed to imiquimod show an increase in mRNA for IL-2, IL-6, and IL-8. Wart clearance was associated with tissue production of interferons α, β and γ, and TNF-α 11.

 

Click here to know more about Imiquad (Imiquimod Cream) -  5% cream or 12.5 gm in 0.25gm cream sachet

 


 

Treatment Options

Anogenital warts recurrence is common and frustrating for patients and physicians. Recurrence rates with conventional ablative techniques are relatively high, since these methods only remove the visible wart without affecting the underlying HPV infection. Of currently available treatments, recurrence rates are very low with immunotherapies, imiquimod (6–19%) and sinecatechins (4–12%) as these treatments stimulate the host's immune response to clear the warts.

Studies have shown that a combination of ablative techniques followed by immunotherapy may lead to even lower recurrence rates; ablation provides rapid clearance but has high recurrence rates while immunotherapy has slow clearance rates and a lower risk of recurrence. 

Imiquimod 5% applied within 3 weeks after warts ablation (to ensure complete wound healing) was associated with a low rate of wart recurrence.

Pre‐treatment of Ano-genital warts with imiquimod to stimulate an immune reaction followed by surgery is also associated with low recurrence rates.

 

 

For other Misc. treatment options for anal warts click here

 

 

Follow Up

The anal warts can recur, even without sexual intercourse. HPV can hide in tissues for many months and can again cause new anal warts to grow. Therefore one may require a repeat treatment or surgery in case of recurrence.

 

Vaccination

Gardasil 9 is the most common vaccine used and is preventive against 9 HPV serotypes.

GARDASIL 9 is a vaccine indicated in females 9 through 45 years of age for the prevention of cervical, vulvar, vaginal, and anal cancers caused by human papillomavirus (HPV) Types 16, 18, 31, 33, 45, 52, and 58; precancerous or dysplastic lesions caused by HPV Types 6, 11, 16, 18, 31, 33, 45, 52, and 58; and genital warts caused by HPV Types 6 and 11.

GARDASIL 9 is indicated in males 9 through 45 years of age for the prevention of anal cancer caused by HPV Types 16, 18, 31, 33, 45, 52, and 58; precancerous or dysplastic lesions caused by HPV Types 6, 11, 16, 18, 31, 33, 45, 52, and 58; and genital warts caused by HPV Types 6 and 11.

This vaccine can prevent most cases of cervical cancer if given before a girl or woman is exposed to the virus. In addition, this vaccine can prevent vaginal and vulvar cancer in women, and can prevent genital warts and anal cancer in women and men.

In theory, vaccinating boys against the types of HPV associated with cervical cancer might also help protect girls from the virus by possibly decreasing transmission. Certain types of HPV have also been linked to cancers in the mouth and throat, so the HPV vaccine likely offers some protection against these cancers, too

Dosage -
If it is begun before age 15, boys and girls get two doses of HPV vaccine; the second vaccination should be given six to 12 months after the first dose.
 
If it's not given by then, the CDC recommends girls ages 15 to 26 and boys ages 15 to 21 receive three doses; the last two should be given one or two and then six months after the first.
 
Gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men, transgender individuals and immunocompromised persons (including those with HIV infection) up to age 26 should also receive the vaccine regimen, according to CDC recommendations.

 


 References
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  2. Patel H, Wagner M, Singhal P, Kothari S. Systematic review of the incidence and prevalence of genital warts. BMC Infect Dis. 2013;13:39. Published 2013 Jan 25. doi:10.1186/1471-2334-13-39.
  3. McGinley KF, Hey W, Sussman DO, Brown GA. Human Papillomavirus Testing in Men. J Am Osteopath Assoc 2011;111(3_suppl_2):S26–S28.
  4. Nguyen AL, Quint KD, Bouwes Bavinck JN, Erceg A, de Kort WJA, Körver JEM. Real-life treatment of cutaneous warts with cantharidin podophyllin salicylic acid solution. Dermatol Ther. 2019 Nov;32(6):e13143. doi: 10.1111/dth.13143. Epub 2019 Nov 20. PMID: 31664756; PMCID: PMC6916542.
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  6. Bastola S, Halalau A, Kc O, Adhikari A. A Gigantic Anal Mass: Buschke-Löwenstein Tumor in a Patient with Controlled HIV Infection with Fatal Outcome. Case Rep Infect Dis. 2018 Apr 1;2018:7267213. doi: 10.1155/2018/7267213. PMID: 29808133; PMCID: PMC5902119.
  7. Demirel AH, Ongoren AU, Bingül F, Gulcelik N. Total excision and V-Y plasty technique in the anal area condyloma acuminatum. Indian J Plast Surg. 2008 Jan;41(1):67-9. doi: 10.4103/0970-0358.41115. PMID: 19753205; PMCID: PMC2739560.
  8. Deshpande DJ, Nayak CS, Mishra SN, Dhurat RS. Verrucous condyloma lata mimicking condyloma acuminata: An unusual presentation. Indian J Sex Transm Dis AIDS. 2009 Jul;30(2):100-2. doi: 10.4103/0253-7184.62766. PMID: 21938129; PMCID: PMC3168050.
  9. Echenique I, Phillips BR. Anal warts and anal intradermal neoplasia. Clin Colon Rectal Surg. 2011 Mar;24(1):31-8. doi: 10.1055/s-0031-1272821. PMID: 22379403; PMCID: PMC3140331.
  10. McClean HL, Hillman RJ. Anogenital warts and condom use--a survey of information giving. Genitourin Med. 1997 Jun;73(3):203-6. doi: 10.1136/sti.73.3.203. PMID: 9306902; PMCID: PMC1195823.
  11. Eggleton S, Tang A. Management of difficult anogenital warts. Sex Transm Infect. 1999 Dec;75(6):449-50. PMID: 10754962.
  12. Bastola S, Halalau A, Kc O, Adhikari A. A Gigantic Anal Mass: Buschke-Löwenstein Tumor in a Patient with Controlled HIV Infection with Fatal Outcome. Case Rep Infect Dis. 2018 Apr 1;2018:7267213. doi: 10.1155/2018/7267213. PMID: 29808133; PMCID: PMC5902119.
  13. Yakan S, Cengiz F, Telciler KE, Uz M, Denecli AG. Rectal Involvement of Recurrent Buschke-Lowenstein Tumor Causing Subileus: a Case Report. Gastroenterology Res. 2011 Aug;4(4):177-179. doi: 10.4021/gr316w. Epub 2011 Jul 20. PMID: 27942337; PMCID: PMC5139731.
  14. Tas S, Arik MK, Ozkul F, Cikman O, Akgun Y. Perianal giant condyloma acuminatum-buschke-löwenstein tumor: a case report. Case Rep Surg. 2012;2012:507374. doi: 10.1155/2012/507374. Epub 2012 Nov 20. PMID: 23213594; PMCID: PMC3508531.
  15. Zhou Q, Hu X, Zhou J, Zhao M, Zhu X, Zhu X. Human papillomavirus DNA in surgical smoke during cervical loop electrosurgical excision procedures and its impact on the surgeon. Cancer Manag Res. 2019 Apr 29;11:3643-3654. doi: 10.2147/CMAR.S201975. PMID: 31118787; PMCID: PMC6499148.
  16. Parker J, Clark J (2021) HPV Positive Oropharyngeal Cancer in Two Gynaecologists Exposed to Electrosurgical Smoke Plume. Obstet Gynecol Cases Rev 8:205. doi.org/10.23937/2377-9004/1410205
  17. Rioux M, Garland A, Webster D, Reardon E. HPV positive tonsillar cancer in two laser surgeons: case reports. J Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg. 2013 Nov 18;42(1):54. doi: 10.1186/1916-0216-42-54. PMID: 24246045; PMCID: PMC3843579.
  18. Fox-Lewis A, Allum C, Vokes D, et al. Human papillomavirus and surgical smoke: a systematic review Occupational and Environmental Medicine 2020;77:809-817.
 

Genital warts

GENITAL WARTS   A wart is a small growth with a rough texture that can appear anywhere on the body, it looks like a small cauliflower. All warts are caused by Human Papilloma Virus (HPV).     Genital Warts-Standard Treatment Guidelines Warts occuring on external genitalia are called genital warts. External genital warts are also known as condylomata acuminata. They are one of the most common forms of sexually transmitted diseases. Genital warts are single or multiple soft, painless, flat, papular, or pedunculated growths which appear around the anus, vulvovaginal area, penis, urethra and perineum. May also appear as keratinized papules. Common sites are Men: under the foreskin, on the shaft Women: around the introitus Both: On the anogenital epithelium,within the anogenital tract. High-risk human papillomaviruses (HPV 16 & 18 serotypes) cause essentially all cervical cancers, most anal and oropharyngeal cancers, and some vaginal, vulvar, and penile cancers.  There are about 14 high-risk HPV types including HPV 16, 18, 31, 33, 35, 39, 45, 51, 52, 56, 58, 59, 66, and 68. Two of these, HPV16 and HPV18, are responsible for most HPV-related cancers. They are caused by a small DNA virus, a papillomavirus belonging to the papovavirus group, which cannot be cultured. Genital warts differ from skin warts histologically and antigenically. Genital warts are nearly always transmitted by sexual contact; autoinoculation from hand to genitals is unusual. The infectivity of sexually acquired warts is about 60%; the incubation period is long, varying from two weeks to eight months. Genital warts are often asymptomatic and painless. Patients may give a history of suddenly noticing them or noticing them only once their sexual contact has acquired them. Women are more likely to be unaware of warts because it is harder for them to examine their genitalia. Warts flourish in warm, moist…

    HPV Vaccine (Gardasil 9) warts

    GARDASIL 9 Vaccine - human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine, 9-valent

     

    What is Gardasil 9 vaccine?

     

    Gardasil 9 (human papillomavirus (HPV)) vaccine is used in both females and males.

    Human papillomavirus (HPV) can cause genital warts, cancer of the cervix, anal cancer, and various cancers of the vulva or vagina.

    Gardasil 9 vaccine is used in girls and women ages 9 through 45 to prevent cervical/vaginal/anal cancers or genital warts caused by certain types of HPV.

    Gardasil 9 vaccine is also used in boys and men ages 9 through 45 to prevent anal cancer or genital warts caused by certain types of HPV.

    You may receive Gardasil 9 even if you have already had genital warts, or had a positive HPV test or abnormal pap smear in the past. However, this vaccine will not treat active genital warts or HPV-related cancers, and it will not cure HPV infection.

    Gardasil 9 vaccine prevents diseases caused only by HPV types 6, 11, 16, 18, 31, 33, 45, 52, and 58. It will not prevent diseases caused by other types of HPV.

    The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends HPV vaccine for all boys and girls ages 11 or 12 years old. The vaccine is also recommended in teenage boys and girls who have not already received the vaccine or have not completed all booster shots.

    Like any vaccine, the Gardasil 9 may not provide protection from disease in every person.

     

    Gardasil 9 vaccine will not protect against sexually transmitted diseases such as chlamydia, gonorrhea, herpes, HIV, syphilis, and trichomoniasis.

    You may feel faint during the first 15 minutes after receiving this vaccine. Some people have had seizure-like reactions after receiving this vaccine.

    Before taking this medicine

    To make sure Gardasil 9 vaccine is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have ever had:

    • an allergy to yeast, polysorbate 80, or to other vaccines;

    • a weak immune system (caused by conditions such as HIV or cancer); or

    • treatment with cancer medicine, steroids, or other drugs that can weaken your immune system.

    Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. If you get pregnant before you receive all needed doses of this vaccine, you may need to wait until after your baby is born to finish the series of shots.

     

    How is Gardasil 9 vaccine given?

    Gardasil 9 vaccine is given as an injection (shot) into a muscle in your upper arm or thigh.

    Gardasil 9 vaccine is given in a series of 2 or 3 shots. You may have the first shot at any time as long as you are between the ages of 9 and 45 years. The second dose is given 2 to 6 months after your first shot. A third dose may be given 6 to 12 months after your first shot.

    Be sure to receive all recommended doses of this vaccine or you may not be fully protected against disease.

     

    Gardasil 9 Dosing Information

     

    Usual Adult Dose for Human Papillomavirus Prophylaxis

    Cervarix(R):
    Females, up to 25 years old: 0.5 mL, intramuscularly, at 0, 1, and 6 months

    Gardasil(R):
    Females and males, up to 26 years: 0.5 mL, intramuscularly, at 0, 2, and 6 months

    Gardasil 9(R):
    Females and males, up to 45 years: 0.5 mL, intramuscularly, at 0, 2, and 6 months

    Uses: For the prevention of cervical, vulvar, and anal cancer caused by Human Papillomavirus (HPV) in females, and prevention of anal cancer, genital warts, and anal intraepithelial neoplasia cause by HPV in males.

    Usual Adult Dose for Human Papillomavirus Prophylaxis:
    Aged 15 to 45 years: 0.5 mL, IM, at 0, 2, and 6 months.

    Usual Pediatric Dose for Human Papillomavirus Prophylaxis:

    Aged 9 to 14 years: 0.5 mL, IM, at 0, 2, and 6 months OR 0.5 mL IM, at 0 and a second dose between 6 and 12 months later.

    Uses: For the prevention of cervical, vulvar, and anal cancer caused by Human Papillomavirus (HPV) in females, and prevention of anal cancer, genital warts, and anal intraepithelial neoplasia cause by HPV in males.

    The next dose should be given as soon as possible. There is no need to start over.

     

    Gardasil 9 vaccine side effects

     

    Common Gardasil 9 side effects may include:

    Human papillomavirus vaccine Side Effects (Applies to human papillomavirus vaccine: intramuscular suspension)

     

    Side effects requiring immediate medical attention

    Along with its needed effects, human papillomavirus vaccine may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

    Less common

    • Fever

    Incidence not known

    • Anxiety
    • back, leg, or stomach pains
    • bleeding gums
    • chest pain
    • chills
    • cough
    • dark urine
    • difficulty with breathing
    • difficulty with swallowing
    • dizziness or lightheadedness
    • fainting
    • fast heartbeat
    • general body swelling
    • headache
    • hives or welts, itching, or skin rash
    • loss of appetite
    • nausea
    • nosebleeds
    • pale skin
    • puffiness or swelling of the eyelids or around the eyes, face, lips, or tongue
    • redness of the skin
    • seizures
    • sore throat
    • swollen, painful, or tender lymph glands in the neck, armpit, or groin
    • tenderness, pain, swelling, warmth, skin discoloration, and prominent superficial veins over the affected area
    • tightness in the chest
    • unusual tiredness or weakness
    • vomiting
    • yellowing of the eyes or skin
    Less common
    • Diarrhea

    • difficulty with moving

    • joint pain or swelling

    • muscle ache, cramps, pain, or stiffness

    • upper abdominal or stomach pain

    Rare

    • Body aches or pain

    • ear congestion

    • loss of voice

    • nasal congestion

    • runny nose

    • sneezing

    Incidence not known

    • Bloating

    • constipation

    • dark urine

    • difficulty with moving

    • indigestion

    • pain, swelling, or redness at the injection site

    • pains in the stomach, side, or abdomen, possibly radiating to the back

     

    For Healthcare Professionals

    Applies to human papillomavirus vaccine: intramuscular suspension

    General

    The most common adverse events were injection site reactions, fatigue, headache, and myalgia.[Ref]

    Local

    Very common (10% or more): Injection site pain (91.9%), injection site swelling (49%), injection site erythema (48.4%)

    Common (1% to 10%): Injection site pruritus, injection site hematoma, injection site induration, injection site hemorrhage, injection site warmth, injection site mass, injection site reaction

    Postmarketing reports: Injection site cellulitis

    Very common (10% or more): Fatigue (54.6%), headache (53.4%), pyrexia (13%), fever of 99.5F or higher (12.9%)

    Common (1% to 10%): Chlamydia infection, malaise

    Uncommon (0.1% to 1%): Death

     

    Musculoskeletal

    Very common (10% or more): Myalgia (48.8%), arthralgia (20.7%)

    Common (1% to 10%): Back pain

     

    Gastrointestinal

    Common (1% to 10%): Nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, abdominal pain upper, toothache

    Rare (less than 0.1%): Appendicitis, gastroenteritis

     

    Respiratory

    Common (1% to 10%): Nasopharyngitis, oropharyngeal pain, influenza, cough, nasal congestion, upper respiratory tract infection, pharyngitis

    Rare (0.01% to 0.1%): Pneumonia, pulmonary embolism, asthma

    Very rare (less than 0.01%): Bronchospasm

    Frequency not reported: Asthmatic crisis

     

    Nervous system

    Common (1% to 10%): Dizziness, migraine

    Rare : Acute disseminated encephalomyelitis, Guillain-Barre syndrome, motor neuron disease, paralysis, seizures, syncope (including syncope associated with tonic-clonic movements and other seizure-like activity) sometimes resulting in falling with injury, transverse myelitis

    Immunologic

    Common (1% to 10%): New medical conditions potentially indicative of systemic autoimmune disorders

     

    Hypersensitivity

    Common (1% to 10%): Injection site hypersensitivity

    Frequency not reported: Allergy to vaccine

     

    Hematologic

    Uncommon (0.1% to 1%): Lymphadenopathy

     

    Psychiatric

    Common (1% to 10%): Insomnia

     

    Genitourinary

    Common (1% to 10%): Dysmenorrhea, vaginal infection, urinary tract infection

    Rare (less than 0.1%): Pelvic inflammatory disease, pyelonephritis

     

    Dermatologic

    Common (1% to 10%): Rash, urticaria, itching/pruritus

     


    References

    1. "Product Information. Cervarix (human papillomavirus vaccine)." GlaxoSmithKline, Research Triangle Park, NC.

    2. "Product Information. Gardasil (human papillomavirus vaccine)." Merck & Company Inc, West Point, PA.

    3. Cerner Multum, Inc. "Australian Product Information."

    4. Cerner Multum, Inc. "UK Summary of Product Characteristics."

    5. "Product Information. Gardasil 9 (human papillomavirus vaccine)." Merck & Company Inc, Whitehouse Station, NJ.

     

    More product information about Gardasil Vaccine click here

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