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Patient case: Condylomata Acuminata

Discussion

A 16-year-old girl visits the clinic complaining of small, raised bumps around her genital area that she noticed two weeks ago. She reports no pain but mentions mild itching and occasional discomfort when wearing tight clothing. The patient is sexually active and uses condoms inconsistently. She denies any other symptoms such as discharge or burning during urination.

On examination, the physician observes multiple small, flesh-colored, cauliflower-like growths around the vulva and perineal area, consistent with genital warts (condylomata acuminata). No other abnormalities are noted, and the rest of the genital exam is normal. The patient’s medical history is unremarkable, and she denies previous sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

The physician discusses the diagnosis of venereal warts, which are caused by certain strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV). Treatment options are explained, including topical therapies and cryotherapy. The patient is also educated about the importance of regular STI screenings, consistent condom use, and the availability of the HPV vaccine. A follow-up appointment is scheduled for treatment initiation and further counseling.

Questions
1. What was the primary complaint that brought the 16-year-old girl to the clinic?

A) Painful urination

B) Small raised bumps around the genital area

C) Vaginal discharge

D) Abdominal pain

2. What type of growths did the physician observe during the examination?

A) Painful blisters

B) Large fluid-filled cysts

C) Flesh-colored, cauliflower-like growths

D) Red, inflamed pustules

3. What is the likely cause of the patient’s genital warts?

A) Herpes simplex virus

B) Human papillomavirus (HPV)

C) Bacterial infection

D) Yeast infection

4. What important prevention measure did the physician discuss with the patient?

A) Antibiotic therapy

B) HPV vaccination

C) Daily antiseptic washes

D) Hormonal treatment

Reveal answers

Answers

1. B) Small raised bumps around the genital area

2. C) Flesh-colored, cauliflower-like growths

3. B) Human papillomavirus (HPV)

4. B) HPV vaccination