Condyloma - is a STD sexually transmitted disease

CONDYLOMA

Genital warts are caused by the HUMAN PAPILLOMA VIRUS (HPV). It is a sexually transmitted disease (STD)and spread by skin-to-skin contact. The disease is highly contagious, with 25 to 65 percent of sexual partners developing the infection. The average incubation period is three months.

The disease may affect any site of either male or female genitals, like vaginal area, anus, penis, uretha and scrotum.

There are about 60 types of HPV. Most warts are specific to one portion of human body. The virus which causes genital warts (also called condyloma) are associated with the human genital tract.

Genital warts may be raised and rough and have a cauliflower like appearance. These types of warts are often called condyloma acuminata. On the other hand, some warts are small, flat, fleshcolored and may not be identifiable to the untrained eye. These types are referred to condyloma planum. Other wart viruses may not be identified without the aid or magnification or biopsy.

Like many STDs, HPV infection often does not cause visible symptoms. The virus can remain latent in the skin, making infected persons not aware of their infection and the potential risk of complication. However, the common symptoms of HPV include itching, burning, pain, tenderness and discomfort during intercourse.