Causes and risk factors
Anal warts spread through direct skin-to-skin contact, usually during oral, genital, or anal sex with an infected partner. The risk of developing anal warts increases in conditions such as having multiple sexual partners, having unprotected sex, becoming sexually active at a very early age, lowered immunity due to an illness or medication, pregnancy, having mental stress along with presence of other viral illnesses such as herpes, HIV, etc.
Clinical presentation
Some HPV infected people will not develop anal warts at all. Warts may develop anywhere from 6 weeks to 6 months after becoming infected and may yet not be noticed for years. Location of the warts is inside and around the area of the anus. These warts can spread easily and involve other areas. In women, they may involve the vulva, vaginal walls, the area between the external genitals and the anus and the cervix. In men, they may involve the tip or shaft of the penis or the scrotum. The warts may also be very small, flat, and may be invisible to the naked eye. The character of the warts include small, flesh-colored, or gray warts. Several warts close together can resemble a cauliflower shape. There is itching or discomfort in the anal area. Sensation of a lump at the anus is experienced.
Investigation
Medical history by the patient and clinical examination by the doctor helps in diagnosis. HPV testing is necessary.
Treatment
Topical applications (creams) help in treatment of anal warts. Cryotherapy is an effective method to treat the condition. Electrocautery can also help in treating warts. Surgical excision of the warts contribute further to the treatment. Laser treatment is also effective in the treatment. It is possible to prevent anal warts by getting vaccinated against HPV, having protected intercourse, having intercourse with only a trusted partner.
Other Modes of treatment
The other modes of treatment can also be effective in treating anal warts. Homoeopathy is a science which deals with individualization and considers a person in a holistic way. This science can be helpful in combating the symptoms. Similarly the Ayurvedic system of medicine, which uses herbal medicines and synthetic derivates, is also found to be effective in treating anal warts.
