What is the provider-administered first line treatment for Genital Warts (HPV)?

Cryotherapy, or the application of liquid nitrogen, is a commonly recommended first-line treatment for genital warts caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). This method involves freezing the warts, which causes them to fall off over time. Cryotherapy is effective because it directly destroys the wart tissue while also inducing an immune response that can enhance the clearance of the virus.

This treatment is particularly favored in clinical settings due to its effectiveness, speed of application, and the ability to treat multiple warts in a single session. It is also a straightforward office procedure with minimal downtime for the patient.

Other treatment options, such as topical medications like imiquimod cream or 5-FU, are typically used for self-administration or when cryotherapy is not an option. Intralesional interferon may be considered for more extensive or resistant cases. However, cryotherapy remains the gold standard for provider-administered treatment due to its proven efficacy and safety profile in managing genital warts.