Final answer:
The human papillomavirus (HPV) is responsible for condyloma acuminata, also known as genital warts. Vaccination with GARDASIL and screening using the Pap test are important preventive measures against certain HPV strains that cause genital warts and cervical cancer.
Step-by-step explanation:
The pathogen responsible for condyloma acuminata, more commonly known as genital warts, is the human papillomavirus (HPV). Genital warts are an extremely prevalent sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by certain strains of HPV. These growths are irregular, soft, and pink, and are typically found on the external genitalia or the anus. While there are over 200 different strains of HPV, with approximately 40 causing STIs, not all HPV infections result in visible symptoms such as warts. Some strains are also associated with an increased risk of cervical cancer.
It is important to note that a vaccine, GARDASIL, is available to prevent infection with certain high-risk and wart-causing HPV types. This vaccine is particularly recommended for females aged 11 to 26 years. Furthermore, a simple screening method known as a Pap test can detect cervical cancer, which, if caught early, usually can be cured with surgery.