Genital warts, also called condyloma acuminata, are caused by human papillomavirus, which is related to the virus that produces common warts. The wart begins as a pinhead-sized swelling that enlarges and becomes pedunculated; the mature wart is often composed of many smaller swellings and may resemble the genital lesions of secondary syphilis.

Granuloma inguinale

Granuloma inguinale is caused by infection with Calymmatobacterium granulomatis and occurs primarily in tropical and subtropical climates, including the southern United States. Initial symptoms are painless papules that become ulcerated, ultimately forming granulomatous masses that tend to bleed easily. These lesions occur on the genitals, thighs, and groin of infected persons and may resemble syphilis lesions. Cancer has also been associated with granuloma inguinale. Treatment is with antibiotics.

Candidiasis

Local infections with the yeast Candida albicans in men almost always are acquired through sexual contacts, but in women, in whom candidiasis is much more common, the infection can be acquired in a variety of ways. In men, candidiasis involves the surface of the glans penis, causing intense burning or itching. In women, candidiasis frequently produces vaginal and vulval irritation, production of a thick white discharge, or pain during urination. The diagnosis is made by culturing yeast from the involved area; treatment is by local antifungal agents.