Are common warts and genital warts the same?

Written by Liu Gang
Dermatology
Updated on September 09, 2024
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Common warts and genital warts are different. Although both common warts and genital warts are caused by human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, they belong to different subtypes of the virus, and their routes of infection also vary. Common contact or touching objects contaminated with the virus that causes common warts can lead to infection, and the affected areas can be located throughout various parts of the body, including the external genitalia, genitals, and perianal area. Genital warts are primarily transmitted through sexual contact and are a sexually transmitted disease. This disease is generally spread through sexual intercourse, leading to cross-infection between partners. The most common locations for genital warts are the external genitalia, perianal area, and the mouth. Genital warts generally do not grow on normal skin. Once genital warts appear, the treatment period is longer, and the recurrence rate is higher. Common warts usually can be treated successfully with one or two conventional treatments.

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Written by Zhu Zhu
Dermatology
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How long does it take to rule out something sharp?

Whether the warts from genital warts increase in number or size is greatly related to the patient's own immune strength. If the immunity is relatively weak and insufficient to resist or suppress virus replication, the warts tend to grow. Conversely, if the patient's immunity is relatively strong, the warts generally do not tend to increase in size and may even disappear or diminish. Therefore, even if the warts do not appear to be growing, one cannot completely rule out genital warts no matter how much time has passed.

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Written by Liu Gang
Dermatology
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How to determine if you have contracted genital warts?

Genital warts appear as cauliflower-like growths and continuously increase in size and number. This disease is a sexually transmitted infection (STI), spread through sexual contact. If one has had unprotected sexual encounters, or notices new growths in the genital area, anus, or mouth that gradually increase in size or number, it is possible that these are genital warts. In such cases, it is best to visit a dermatology department at a reputable hospital and perform an acetic acid white test for diagnosis. Once diagnosed, it is crucial to receive proper treatment, as the warts can proliferate and potentially be transmitted to others through sexual contact. The overall treatment period for this disease tends to be lengthy, involving both laser treatment and medication.

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Written by Liu Gang
Dermatology
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Can genital warts be contagious during the incubation period?

Genital warts are caused by an HPV virus infection, commonly known as the human papillomavirus. This disease is highly contagious, with a very high chance of being infected through sexual contact. The incubation period varies from person to person, generally ranging from half a month to eight months, and it can be contagious during the incubation period. This is because the virus can adhere to the mucous membranes of the body and can be transmitted to others through sexual contact during the incubation period. Treatment during the incubation period primarily focuses on enhancing immunity and antiviral methods. Besides medication, regular exercise can help strengthen immunity. If warts are detected, it is important to seek formal treatment in the dermatology department of a regular hospital.

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Written by Zhu Zhu
Dermatology
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Can medication cure warts?

Genital warts, also known as condyloma acuminata, are commonly treated with comprehensive methods. Medication alone may cure the condition, but not all patients can be cured solely through medication. For genital warts, the recommended treatment includes topical and oral medications. Topical treatments may include imiquimod cream, podophyllin resin, or 5-fluorouracil cream, while oral medications may consist of antiviral drugs, or those that adjust and enhance the patient's immune system. Besides pharmacotherapy, physical and photodynamic therapies are also preferred methods, offering better treatment options for curing genital warts. (Please use medication under the guidance of a doctor.)

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Written by Zhu Zhu
Dermatology
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Does molluscum contagiosum spread?

Genital warts, also known as condyloma acuminata, are contagious and highly infectious. Genital warts are a sexually transmitted disease primarily caused by infection with the HPV virus. In the early stages, small papules appear, commonly found around the external genitalia and anus. Over time, these can merge and enlarge, forming cauliflower-like growths or hyperplasias, which may bleed or exude due to friction or rubbing. Once diagnosed with genital warts, it is crucial to receive early, scientific, and standardized treatment to avoid severe impact on the patient's physical and mental health.