Definition for Genital warts
From Biology Forums Dictionary
Infection with human papillomaviruses (HPVs) causes genital warts, which range in size from barely visible to cauliflower-like growths called condylomata acuminata. Some HPVs may cause cancer. Genital warts may be itchy or painful, and rarely they may bleed or cause increased vaginal discharge. Transmission is via the skin or mucous membranes of the penis, vagina, or anus during sexual intercourse. Physicians remove genital warts with surgery, freezing, burning, laser, or the use of caustic chemicals, though with any of these methods, viruses may remain in surrounding tissues and warts may return. In women, the Papanicolaou smear (Pap smear) screens for cervical cancer. Abstinence or monogamy is preventive. A vaccine is available.