Could it be something else?

[antonella27]

Hello- I get regualary tested for HPV once a year and have always come out negative.  After reading this forum, i realize I could have gotten it years ago and never showed up.  Anyhow, about a week ago i noticed 2 small skin growths in my vulvar area and really thought nothing of it. they are flesh colorede and very small.  no coliflour appearance at all, i dont think.  i went to the gyno and she immediately told me they look like warts.  i was so upset and she basically was very cold and did not care.  i am getting them removed on Wednesday and sent for a biopsy.  i wanted to know, if they are not warts, what else could they be?  what is the possibility they are something else?

[H. Hunter Handsfield, M.D.]

On the one hand, if your gynecologists thinks they are warts, thats probably the best bet.  On the other hand, an experienced provider doesn't need a biopsy to diagnose warts; that strikes me as an income-generating exercise more than a diagnostic one.  From your description, you could have skin tags, which are a normal part of the skin that can appear from time to time in the genital area.  Before you have a biopsy, I recommend a second opinion, perhaps from a dermatologist.  And it sounds like you need to find another gynecologist anyway, if only beause of her attitude.



Good luck--- HHH, MD

[antonella27]

Thanks for your help. Unfotunately, work and time contraints do not allow me to get a second opinion prior to my biopsy.  If in fact, they are warts, many of the postings have lead me to beleive there is a good chance the virus will clear on it's own.  Do i have reason do beleive that is a possibility in the future?

[H. Hunter Handsfield, M.D.]

Most HPV infections clear up on their own over several months.  But treatment of warts speeds the process.



HHH, MD