Warts / Viral Skin

Genital warts (condyloma acuminata) are caused by HPV types 6 and 11 (low-risk group), presenting as cauliflower-shaped soft papules around the genitals and anus. Low-risk HPV rarely causes cervical cancer, but treatment is necessary due to cosmetic issues and the risk of sexual partner transmission.

Warning: Specialist diagnosis must come first

• HPV types 16 and 18 (high-risk) — major cause of cervical cancer, vulvar cancer, anal cancer, and oropharyngeal cancer. Lesions may exist without symptoms and cannot be distinguished by the naked eye
• HPV DNA testing or biopsy is required to confirm the type
• For women, cervical cytology (Pap smear) and HPV testing should be performed together
• HPV vaccination (Gardasil) can prevent types 6, 11, 16, and 18 — vaccination before infection is most effective

Treatment: Podophyllin application, imiquimod, cryotherapy, and laser/electrocauterization are standard treatments. It is important for sexual partners to also get tested.

Oriental Medicine Clinic Perspective

Genital warts themselves must receive primary treatment at a gynecology or urology clinic. Korean medicine assists with preventing recurrence after treatment and strengthening immunity. Removing lower Jiao Damp-Heat with Yongdam-sagam-tang (龍膽瀉肝湯), combined with immune-boosting prescriptions, helps lower recurrence rates. When HPV types 16 and 18 infection is confirmed, continued medical follow-up is essential.