A 24-year old female client has just been diagnosed with condylomata acuminata (genital warts). What information is appropriate to tell this client?
A. This condition puts her at a higher risk for cervical cancer; therefore, she should have a Papanicolaou (Pap) smear annually.
B. The most common treatment is metronidazole (Flagyl), which should eradicate the problem within 7 to 10 days.
C. The potential for transmission to her sexual partner will be eliminated if condoms are used every time they have sexual intercourse.
D. The human papillomavirus (HPV), which causes condylomata acuminata, can’t be transmitted during oral sex.
Correct Answer: A. This condition puts her at a higher risk for cervical cancer; therefore, she should have a Papanicolaou (Pap) smear annually.
Women with condylomata acuminata are at risk for cancer of the cervix and vulva. Yearly Pap smears are very important for early detection. Cervical cancer screening guidance comes from the American Cancer Society guidelines and does not require modification with the presence or absence of genital warts. There are no indications for females younger than 21 to be screened for cervical cancer.
Option B: Because condylomata acuminata is a virus, there is no permanent cure. Topical therapies, cryotherapy, and surgical excision are available treatment options for patients. A formal treatment algorithm does not exist, and treatment depends on lesion location, morphology, and patient preference.
Option C: Because condylomata acuminata can occur on the vulva, a condom won’t protect sexual partners. The patient should receive education on safe sex practice; this means using barrier protection, avoiding anal sex, and multiple partners. The patient should be encouraged to be tested for other sexually transmitted infections and maintain long-term follow-up.
Option D: HPV can be transmitted to other parts of the body, such as the mouth, oropharynx, and larynx. While condyloma acuminata generally occur in the anogenital region, lesions may also be present in the oral cavity. Simultaneous lesions in the anogenital region suggest sexual transmission, but fomites may also be the source of condyloma acuminata present in the oral cavity.
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