Anal warts (condyloma acuminate) are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), the most common sexually transmitted disease (STD). Warts affect the area around and inside the anus but may also develop on the skin of the genital area. They first appear as tiny spots or growths, often as small as a pin head. They can grow quite large and cover the entire anal area.
Sexual intercourse is a common way to get infected with HPV. However, a person can become infected with HPV without having sexual intercourse. Any direct contact with the anal area (e.g., hand contact, fluids from an infected sexual partner) can cause HPV and anal or genital warts.
Your physician will look at the skin around the anus, as well as the entire pelvic area, including the genitals. He or she may perform an exam of the anal canal with a small, lighted scope (anoscopy) to see if there are any warts inside the anal canal (internal anal warts).
Mild pain and discomfort generally last for a few days.Patients treated in the clinic can return to work immediately.Those that have surgery can usually return to work the next day, while others that have more extensive surgery may stay home for several days to weeks.
Do warts come back after Removal?
Warts may come back repeatedly after successful Removal. This happens because the HPV virus stays inactive for a period of time in body tissues. When warts come back, they can usually be treated at your surgeon’s office. If a large number of new warts develop quickly, surgery may be needed again. It is important to discuss with your surgeon how often to schedule follow-up visits. During these visits, an exam will be done to make sure that all the warts are gone and no new ones have formed.