by Jason Wasserman MD PhD FRCPC
March 7, 2023
What is condyloma acuminatum?
Condyloma acuminatum is a non-cancerous growth caused by human papillomavirus (HPV). Another name for this condition is a genital wart.
Can condyloma acuminatum turn into cancer?
No. Condyloma acuminatum is a non-cancerous condition that will not turn into cancer over time. However, this condition can recur (regrow) in the same location after treatment.
What causes condyloma acuminatum?
Condyloma acuminatum is caused by infection with low-risk types of human papillomavirus (HPV), typically types 6 and 12.
Where is condyloma acuminatum found?
In women, this condition commonly involves the vulva, perianal skin, perineum, vagina, and cervix. In men, this condition commonly involves the penis, scrotum, perianal skin, and perineum. Although rare, this condition can also involve the urethra in both women and men.
How is this diagnosis made?
The diagnosis of condyloma acuminatum is usually made after part or all of the growth is removed and sent to a pathologist for examination under the microscope.
What does condyloma acuminatum look like under the microscope?
When examined under the microscope, condyloma acuminatum is typically composed of long finger-like projections of tissue covered by specialized squamous cells. Pathologists often use the term verrucous or papillary to describe these finger-like projections. Abnormal-looking squamous cells called koilocytes may also be seen. Koilocytes are squamous cells that have been infected by HPV.
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