Abstract
External genital warts (EGW) are currently the most common form of viral sexually transmitted disease found in the general population. EGW have been shown to occur as a direct result of infection with the human papillomavirus (HPV). Malignancy is typically associated with high-risk types of HPV; however, low-risk type association has been observed. Numerous therapies are presently indicated for use in the treatment of EGW, which can target lesions through multiple modalities including topically, surgically or via immune modulation. Therapies often differ dramatically with respect to cost, side-effect profiles, dosing schedules, duration of treatment and overall effectiveness. Routine HPV vaccination may play a powerful role in reducing the burden of disease by preventing viral infection and transmission. As HPV vaccination continues to gain widespread approval, it may prove instrumental in decreasing the incidence of HPV infection and eventually eradicating genital warts.
Financial & competing interests disclosure
G Goldenberg has received funding from Valeant and Pharmaderm. The authors have no other relevant affiliations or financial involvement with any organization or entity with a financial interest in or financial conflict with the subject matter or materials discussed in the manuscript apart from those disclosed.
No writing assistance was utilized in the production of this manuscript.