Anal Condyloma (HPV)

What it is

Anal condyloma is the manifestation of human papillomavirus (HPV) in the anal area: warts with an irregular surface, single or clustered, that appear on the skin around the anus and, often, also inside the anal canal. It is a common sexually transmitted infection that can coexist with genital lesions and that, with certain viral subtypes, increases the risk of precancerous anal lesions. At Femi Saúde, the coloproctology team performs a full evaluation with anoscopy, treats the lesions with laser, electrocautery or excision, provides guidance on vaccination and prevention, and maintains follow-up after treatment, in a judgment-free setting with integration with gynecology for joint care when genital lesions are present.

Most common symptoms

• Small warts around the anus
• Cauliflower-like lesions that grow or merge together
• Anal itching and irritation
• Light bleeding during bowel movements or wiping
• Moisture or discharge in the area
• A feeling of a lump in the anus

Causes and risk factors

• HPV infection through sexual contact
• Skin-to-skin contact with lesions
• Weakened immunity
• Smoking
• Multiple partners without protection

How it is diagnosed

The diagnosis is clinical, based on the characteristic appearance of the warts on inspection of the anal area. Anoscopy is essential, since internal lesions in the anal canal are common and go unnoticed without the exam. In case of doubt, atypical lesions or immunosuppressed patients, the coloproctologist may perform a biopsy to confirm the diagnosis and rule out precancerous anal lesions. A gynecological evaluation with a Pap smear and screening for other sexually transmitted infections is also recommended.

How we treat it at Femi Saúde

The choice depends on the number, size and location of the lesions. Small, external lesions can be treated with topical creams or removed under local anesthesia in the office. Larger, multiple lesions, or ones inside the anal canal, are treated with laser, electrocautery or excision, sometimes in a surgical setting. In all cases, the coloproctology team at Femi Saúde provides guidance on the HPV vaccine, which reduces recurrences and new infections, on condom use, and on partner evaluation, and maintains regular follow-up visits, since recurrences are common in the first few months.

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