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Why is a biopsy of genital warts (human papillomavirus) done?
You may have a biopsy if any of the following are true:
- Your doctor is not sure what type of abnormal tissue is present.
- Warts have not responded to treatment.
- Warts appear unusual.
What do the results of a biopsy of genital warts (human papillomavirus) mean?
Findings of a biopsy may include the following:
Normal
No abnormal cells are found. This usually means that the human papillomavirus (HPV) is not present.
Abnormal
Abnormal cells called koilocytes are found. Koilocyte cells collected from the genital or anal areas are abnormal. They are a sign of infection with HPV.
Other types of skin lesions also may be found.
Abnormal cervical cell changes caused by HPV will be treated differently than how genital warts are treated.
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