Impact of Genital and Extragenital Viral Warts on Quality of Life Among Libyan Patients

Abstract

Warts are caused by Human Papillomavirus (HPV). They can cause physical symptoms like pain and bleeding, in addition to psychological symptoms such as anxiety. Measuring the Quality of Life (QoL) is now considered crucial in dermatological research to evaluate the burden of the disease. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of genital and extragenital viral warts on the quality of life among Libyan patients and to identify the main demographic and clinical factors associated with worse perceived quality‑of‑life. A cross‑sectional study was conducted among 50 patients attending the dermatology clinic at Al‑Jamhoria Hospital in Benghazi, Libya. Data were collected from patients in two stages. First, patients underwent a full dermatological examination to document the type, location, number, and duration of warts. Second, participants themselves filled in the Quality-of-Life Index (QOLI) questionnaire. Sociodemographic information, including age, gender, and duration of disease, was recorded. Data were analysed using SPSS version 26.0. Most participants had extragenital warts (92%), and 56% had multiple wart sites. The most frequently affected site was the plantar surface (44%). The mean duration of the disease was 26.3 months. The average Quality of Life Index (QOLI) score was 28.7%. Nearly half of the participants reported embarrassment (50%) and fear of negative judgment (42%). A statistically significant correlation was found between genital localisation and higher QOLI distress (p = 0.040). Viral warts can affect multiple aspects of daily life and should not be underestimated. Psychological and social factors should be considered when managing patients with this condition.