Genital warts and herpes simplex are the most common sexually transmitted diseases.

The human papilloma virus causes genital warts. This is abbreviated as HPV. These viruses are capable of infecting the first layer of the skin, the epidermis. There are more than 100 types of HPV viruses. HPV types 16, 18, 31, 33, and 35 may cause cervical cancer. Types 6 and 11 are common causes of genital HPV infection. Most patients are not aware of their infection. Condoms are useful for prevention but are not 100% effective.

Genital warts. This is a typical case showing large individual lesions on the shaft of the penis.

A group of small genital warts in the anal area

Genital warts. A very large lesion in the vaginal area.