Anal warts (condylomata acuminata) are caused by human papilloma virus (HPV). The virus needs 1-6 months incubation before manifesting warts and two years are required for the body to clear the infection.
Risk of infection increases with multiple partners and lack of condom use.
In men having sex with men (MSM), anal warts occur with and without HIV infection but incidence in higher in HIV infected men.
Some types of HPV infections raise the risk of anus malignancy while recurrent infections in HIV positive men is associated with squamous cell carcinoma.
Diagnosis is made by clinical examination ( picture of anal warts ) and by history. Patients may report anal burning, tenderness, bleeding or itching. Anal intercourse or passing stool may be difficult. An anoscope can be used to examine internal anal tissue.
An anal Pap smear should be done using Dacron swab saturated with water and inserted into the anus about 2″ reaching the rectal wall then swirled as it is removed catching anal tissue cells. The swab is placed in Thinprep container.
Treatment includes acetic acid topical application, cryotherapy or surgical excision. Also, see algorithm for treatment.
Currently, there is no approved vaccination for HPV in men.
Anal warts (condylomata acuminata) are caused by human papilloma virus (HPV). The virus needs 1-6 months incubation before manifesting warts and two years are required for the body to clear the infection.
Risk of infection increases with multiple partners and lack of condom use.
In men having sex with men (MSM), anal warts occur with and without HIV infection but incidence in higher in HIV infected men.
Some types of HPV infections raise the risk of anus malignancy while recurrent infections in HIV positive men is associated with squamous cell carcinoma.
Diagnosis is made by clinical examination ( picture of anal warts ) and by history. Patients may report anal burning, tenderness, bleeding or itching. Anal intercourse or passing stool may be difficult. An anoscope can be used to examine internal anal tissue.
An anal Pap smear should be done using Dacron swab saturated with water and inserted into the anus about 2″ reaching the rectal wall then swirled as it is removed catching anal tissue cells. The swab is placed in Thinprep container.
Treatment includes acetic acid topical application, cryotherapy or surgical excision. Also, see algorithm for treatment.
Currently, there is no approved vaccination for HPV in men.