Professor Hagit Tulchinskyleading colorectal surgeon
Israeli medicine attracts foreign patients with the opportunity to receive high-quality therapy based on precise diagnostics and modern techniques. Treatment of condylomas in Israel is carried out using the latest generation laser and radio wave systems, combined antiviral and immunomodulatory therapy schemes. These methods allow for effective action not only on the condylomas themselves but also on the human papillomavirus that causes them. The comprehensive treatment program includes radio wave and laser techniques, cryodestruction, surgical removal, and modern medications.
Foreign patients appreciate Israeli medicine for the high qualifications of medical personnel and the clear organization of not only the treatment process but also the patient's stay in the country. Numerous reviews confirm both the quality of diagnostics and treatment, as well as the creation of a friendly and cozy atmosphere in clinics, which greatly contributes to faster recovery. An important advantage is also the cost of medical services, which is affordable for most medical tourists.
About the Disease
Condylomas, or genital warts, are soft tissue growths that, when merged, resemble cauliflower. They primarily form in the anogenital area but can also appear in other areas where the virus can penetrate the epithelium. The causes of these benign neoplasms lie in infection with the human papillomavirus (HPV). Close contact of skin or mucous membranes with an infected person is necessary for transmission. Most often, infection occurs through sexual contact, but household transmission is also possible in cases of skin integrity violation.
There are several factors that increase the risk of developing condylomas:
- sexually transmitted diseases (STDs);
- frequent change of sexual partner;
- unprotected sexual contact with a person infected with HPV;
- vaginal dysbiosis;
- weakened immune system (after illnesses, due to severe stress, overwork, lack of sleep);
- hormonal changes;
- chronic inflammatory processes in the urogenital area;
- microtraumas of the skin and mucous membranes.
The main signs of the disease include the appearance of soft neoplasms on the skin and mucous membranes that resemble papules. These growths can be solitary or multiple, flesh-colored, pink, or slightly pigmented.
Characteristic symptoms of condylomas:
- sensation of itching and burning;
- skin irritation, especially when rubbed by clothing;
- sensation of a foreign body;
- bleeding with slight trauma;
- psychological discomfort.
Condylomas are considered benign neoplasms and rarely become malignant. However, with prolonged existence, frequent trauma, or in combination with other risk factors, the development of precancerous changes in the epithelium is possible. The most important factor in this case is the strain of the virus:
- HPV 6 and 11 — cause benign condylomas, with minimal risk of malignancy;
- high-risk HPV strains (16, 18, etc.) — can lead to precancerous changes such as dysplasia, and in the absence of treatment, to malignant processes of the cervix, anal canal, penis, and oral cavity.
The likelihood of malignant transformation increases under the following conditions:
- absence of treatment for condylomas for a prolonged period;
- chronic inflammatory processes;
- immunodeficiencies;
- combination of several types of HPV.
The prognosis for condylomas is generally favorable. Modern removal methods allow for quick elimination of symptoms and achieve a stable, long-lasting remission.
Treatment Methods for the Disease
Treatment of condylomas aims to remove visible neoplasms and reduce the activity of the human papillomavirus. At the Ichilov clinic, a comprehensive approach is used, combining gentle removal methods with antiviral and immunomodulatory therapy.
Laser Removal
For multiple growths on the skin and mucous membranes, this method provides precise removal without damaging healthy tissues. The CO2 laser vaporizes pathological cells layer by layer while simultaneously coagulating small vessels and preventing bleeding. The doctor regulates the depth of impact in real-time, which is especially important when treating delicate areas of the anogenital region. The procedure is performed under local anesthesia, healing occurs faster compared to traditional surgical excision, and the risk of scarring is minimal due to the contactless technique.
Radio Wave Ablation
When condylomas have a pronounced stalk or are located in areas with increased sensitivity, the radio wave method is used. The high-frequency waves of the Surgitron device cut through tissue without mechanical pressure and thermal burns to surrounding structures. The electrode of various shapes allows working with both single formations and extensive areas of damage. Minimal trauma promotes rapid recovery, which is especially valuable in intimate areas where it is important to preserve functionality and aesthetics.
Chemical Destruction
For small superficial condylomas, preparations based on podophyllotoxin or trichloroacetic acid are applied directly to the affected areas. The active substances cause necrosis of the pathologically altered cells while preserving the surrounding healthy skin when the application technique is followed. This method requires several visits to the doctor for repeated applications and effectiveness monitoring. Special attention is paid to protecting healthy tissues with barrier agents, preventing chemical burns and accelerating healing.
Cryodestruction
For small solitary condylomas at an early stage of formation, freezing with super-low temperatures is effective. Liquid nitrogen is applied pointwise using a special applicator, causing crystallization of intracellular fluid and destruction of pathological tissues. After the procedure, a crust forms under which healthy skin regeneration occurs. The method does not require anesthesia and can be performed on an outpatient basis, although several sessions may be necessary for complete removal of all elements, especially with deep-seated altered cells.
Surgical Excision
For large growths or suspicion of malignant transformation, complete removal of the formation with capture of healthy tissue is necessary. Scalpel technique allows obtaining material for histological examination, which is critical for excluding dysplasia or cancer. The operation is performed under adequate anesthesia with careful suturing of the wound with cosmetic stitches. Despite a longer recovery compared to destructive methods, this approach guarantees radicality and allows for precise morphological verification of the diagnosis.
Immunomodulatory Therapy
After the removal of visible formations, patients with frequent recurrences are prescribed medications from the group of interferon inducers or local immunomodulators. These agents activate the body's own defense mechanisms against the human papillomavirus, reducing the likelihood of recurrent condylomas. Treatment is conducted in courses under the supervision of an immunologist, who assesses the state of the immune system and adjusts the therapy scheme. A systemic approach helps not only to prevent recurrences but also to suppress viral activity in latent infection foci.
Photodynamic Therapy
In cases of extensive multiple eruptions or localization in hard-to-reach places, this innovative method becomes an alternative to traditional destruction. A photosensitizer is applied to the affected area, which selectively accumulates in the cells of the condylomas, after which the area is irradiated with light of a specific wavelength. The activated substance generates active forms of oxygen that destroy pathological tissues from within. The procedure is painless and allows for the treatment of a large area at once, reducing the number of visits and providing a good cosmetic result without scarring.
- Laser Surgery
Diagnostic Methods for the Disease
The diagnosis of condylomas aims to accurately confirm lesions, determine the strain of the virus, and exclude precancerous changes. The examination is conducted according to a multi-step protocol, allowing for the detection of even hidden and atypical forms of the disease. At the Ichilov clinic, a comprehensive examination and diagnosis can be completed within three days.
First Day
Upon arriving at the clinic, the patient attends a primary consultation with the attending physician. The specialist listens to complaints, studies the medical history, conducts a superficial examination, and refers the patient for necessary additional examinations.
Second Day
Undergoing the prescribed examinations:
- dermatoscopy – examining the structure of the neoplasm under magnification, allowing clarification of its nature and identification of suspicious areas requiring deeper investigation;
- HPV PCR diagnostics – one of the key diagnostic methods that accurately establishes the presence of the human papillomavirus, determines its strain, and assesses viral load;
- colposcopy / peniscopy / anoscopy – identifying microscopic areas of damage not visible to the naked eye;
- STD screening – timely identification of pathogens of relevant infections is very important for comprehensive therapy and prevention of recurrences;
- biopsy (if indicated) – indicated when there is suspicion of malignancy (atypical appearance of the formation, rapid growth, color change, increased bleeding, detection of high-risk HPV strains).
Third Day
The results of the conducted studies are submitted for review by the medical council. After evaluating the obtained data and establishing a diagnosis, the doctors develop a treatment program.
How Much Does Treatment Cost
The final price is determined after the completion of therapy; however, in any case, treatment in Israel is significantly cheaper than in many other countries. By contacting the clinic's consultant at the numbers provided on the website, you can find out the approximate cost.
Advantages of Treatment in Israel
- Excellent training of doctors.
- Equipping clinics with modern equipment.
- Use of the latest treatment methods.
- Fast and accurate diagnostics.
- Reasonable prices.
For foreign patients, an online consultation service with an Israeli specialist is available. You can order a consultation by contacting the clinic's consultant. Upon contacting the patient, the doctor answers their questions, assesses the ongoing treatment, and advises on further actions.