Genital warts are a rather common infection that most women are infected by and is caused due to numerous types of human papillomavirus virus (HPV). The virus spreads through direct contact and is extremely dangerous as it can lead to cervical cancer or cause changes in the cervix which eventually lead to cancer. Genital warts are mainly caused due to sexually transmitted diseases (STD) and both men and women can be affected with it. Men can be affected with the HPV virus on their, penis, scrotum or the area around the anus and in case of women; it affects their, vagina, cervix, vulva as well the area around the anus. Warts may go away on their own without any treatment and can sometimes come back even after being treated. You are at a greater risk to develop genital warts if suffering from diabetes or if you are pregnant.
Genital Warts Biopsy Reasons
Most of the time, warts do not require a biopsy. However, a genital wart biopsy is carried out mainly when the warts are not easily identifiable despite a physical examination or colposcopy which is done with the help of a magnifying instrument. A biopsy can be suggested if the doctor is not able to detect the exact type of abnormal tissue that is present, or in case warts are unusual in appearance or in case warts have not responded to treatments.
Genital Warts Biopsy Preparation
Usually, there are no special preparations that are required before the test but it is advised you consult your doctor in case of any queries.
Genital Warts Biopsy Procedure
The test is carried out at your doctor’s clinic. You are firstly given a local anesthesia that is used very often to conduct biopsies of the outer genital areas in case of both men and women which includes the vulva, scrotum or penis. People might experience a lot of pain during a genital warts biopsy and therefore, the anesthesia helps numb the area so you do not feel anything. Normal results indicate the absence of any abnormal tissues or growth thus, erasing the possibility of an HPV virus being present. In case of an abnormal result, unusual cells known as koilocytes may be found and are an indication of an infection because of the HPV virus. Another complication would be the diagnosis of different types of lesions that could be found. You need to avoid having sexual intercourse until the biopsy area is healed.