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HPV – Human Papillomavirus

A group of more than 200 related DNA viruses that infect epithelial cells, including those of the skin and mucous membranes. HPV infections are typically classified into high-risk and low-risk types based on their oncogenic potential. High-risk HPVs, such as HPV-16 and HPV-18, are associated with the development of cancers, particularly cervical, anal, and oropharyngeal cancers, while low-risk types, such as HPV-6 and HPV-11, cause benign warts (papillomas) and respiratory papillomatosis.

Key Features:

  • Types of HPV:
    • High-Risk HPVs: Associated with cancers (e.g., HPV-16, HPV-18).
    • Low-Risk HPVs: Cause benign lesions like genital warts (e.g., HPV-6, HPV-11).
  • Transmission:
    • Primarily spread through sexual contact, including vaginal, anal, and oral sex.
    • Can also be transmitted through close skin-to-skin contact.
  • Symptoms:
    • Often asymptomatic and go unnoticed.
    • Genital warts: Small bumps or groups of bumps in the genital area.
    • Persistent infection with high-risk HPV can lead to precancerous lesions and cancers.
  • Diagnosis:
    • Cytology (Pap Test): Detects abnormal cells in the cervix.
    • HPV DNA Test: Identifies the presence of high-risk HPV types in cervical cells.
  • Prevention:
    • Vaccination: HPV vaccines (e.g., Gardasil, Cervarix) protect against the most common high-risk and some low-risk HPV types.
    • Screening: Regular cervical screening (Pap tests and HPV tests) for early detection and management of precancerous conditions.
  • Treatment:
    • No cure for the virus itself, but treatments are available for the health problems that HPV can cause, such as genital warts and precancerous lesions.

 

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