Genital warts can be very embarrassing, and depending on their location and size, can also interfere with sexual activity. Genital warts are caused by infection with human papillomaviruses (HPV). There are many different types of HPV; most genital warts are caused by types 6 and 11. Some types of HPV are associated with the development of a variety of cancers, but types 6 and 11 do not cause cancer. The currently available HPV vaccines do not protect against types 6 and 11, and even with careful condom use, HPV can easily be transmitted.
The currently available HPV vaccines do not protect against types 6 and 11, and even with careful condom use, HPV can easily be transmitted. Genital warts that are painful, cosmetically displeasing, or interfering with sexual activity can be removed through electrodesiccation. Removal of genital warts may also decrease the risk of transmitting the infection to another person.
Wart Treatment
Although 10 to 20% of genital warts will spontaneously go away after a few months, most cases require treatment to remove them. Electrodesiccation is one of the effective treatments. Medications may require several weeks of application before the wart regresses, and there may be considerable irritation of the skin at the treatment site, plus a high recurrence rate. A randomized controlled trial reported that 94% of patients treated with electrodesiccation had complete wart clearance. Long-term follow-up indicated that 71% of treated patients remained wart-free after electrodesiccation.
Electrodesiccation
Electrodesiccation is performed after numbing the area with a local anesthetic. The method is fast, surgical in nature, and the wart will shrivel up and drop off after a few days, leaving a scab. The treated area will then heal.
What to Expect
The local anesthetic will eliminate all pain, but many patients report feeling odd tingling sensations during the procedure. Treatment is very fast and effective. Patients may be able to return to regular activities immediately. It may be important to not pick at or touch the treated skin, and it is also important to keep the area clean to avoid bacterial infection. You will be given specific after-care instructions to ensure positive results.
Contact Us Today
If you have been dealing with HPV and have been looking for a solution, contact Rao Dermatology today to schedule a consultation. At our practice, we offer a range of cosmetic and medical services including acne treatment, BOTOX®, sclerotherapy, laser therapy, and more. Our priority is helping our patients with their concerns and ensuring they reach their cosmetic goals. With the new year around the corner, take action now and see how electrodesiccation can help with HPV removal.
