Definition

A raised growth in or around the anus caused by human papillomavirus (HPV). HPV can spread by skin-to-skin contact, usually during oral, anal, or genital sex with an infected partner. Anal warts often appear as small, light brown or skin-colored bumps that may be clumped together. They are usually painless and do not cause any symptoms, so a person may not know they have them. However, sometimes they can grow large and cause itching and bleeding. Anal warts may come back after treatment. People who have had anal warts have an increased risk of developing anal cancer.