HPV

HPV Virus

"HPV" redirects here. For human-powered vehicles, see human-powered transport.

Human papillomaviruses (HPV) belong to a broad class of DNA-based viruses known to infect the skin and mucous membranes of humans and multiple animal species. Over 100 diverse HPV types have been identified. While some of these strains cause benign skin growths, or papillomas, others are responsible for a variety of more severe conditions, including cancers.

Epidemiology

HPV holds the dubious distinction of being one of the most prevalent sexually-transmitted infections globally. While many infected individuals remain asymptomatic and clear the infection without complications, others may develop persistent infections, leading to various malignancies, particularly cervical cancer.

HPV-Induced Diseases

Foot warts and treatment with WiRA

Cutaneous HPV

1. Cutaneous Manifestations

Common Warts (Verrucae Vulgaris): Predominantly caused by HPV-1 and HPV-2, these warts manifest as cauliflower-like projections, typically on hands and feet. They are benign and not linked to malignancies.

Plantar Warts: Found on foot soles, they resemble common warts and are primarily treated using Salicylic Acid, photodynamic therapy, or water-filtered infrared A (wIRA).

Subungual and Periungual Warts: These warts develop either beneath the nail (subungual) or around the nail/cuticle area (periungual) and might require rigorous treatments due to their stubborn nature.

Flat Warts: These slightly raised lesions predominantly appear on the face, arms, or forehead, especially in adolescents and children. They don't generally progress into cancers in individuals with competent immune systems.

2. Mucosal Manifestations

Genital HPV

Genital Warts (Condylomata Acuminata): As a hallmark sign of genital HPV infection, these warts are primarily attributed to HPV-6 and HPV-11, accounting for around 90% of cases. Notably, asymptomatic individuals might still transmit the virus.

Cancer: Certain HPV strains, including HPV-16 and HPV-18, are categorized as "high-risk" due to their potential to induce various cancers, including cervical, anal, vulvar, penile, and head and neck cancers. Such strains often interfere with the cellular DNA, leading to tumorigenesis.

3. Respiratory Papillomatosis This rare condition is primarily caused by HPV-6 and HPV-11. Here, warts form on the larynx or other parts of the respiratory tract. The warts might necessitate frequent surgeries, potentially evolve into cancers, and may pose threats to breathing.

Prevention

1. Pap Smear: By detecting HPV-induced cellular anomalies, Pap smear testing enables targeted removal of precancerous lesions, effectively curbing the onset of invasive cervical cancer.

2. Vaccine: The Gardasil vaccine, developed by Merck and approved by the FDA in 2006, offers protection against the most common HPV strains associated with cervical cancers and genital warts. However, regular Pap smear tests remain crucial as the vaccine doesn't cover all cancer-causing HPV types.

3. Sexual Behavior: Engaging in protected sex, limiting the number of sexual partners, and understanding the limitations of protection offered by condoms against HPV can help in curbing its spread.

4. Topical Microbicides: Chemical agents that can block HPV transmission when applied topically before intercourse are under clinical investigation. Carrageenan-based sexual lubricants have shown promise in vitro in inhibiting HPV and warrant further study.

5. Avoiding Tobacco: Smoking augments the risk of HPV-induced cancers. It's speculated that tobacco compromises the body's ability to absorb folic acid, crucial in treating HPV symptoms like cervical dysplasia.

Treatment

Treatment modalities are comprehensive and based on the specific HPV-induced disease in question.

Summary

HPV remains a significant global health concern due to its link with various diseases, including cancer. While prevention methods like vaccination offer hope, awareness and regular screenings are imperative for early detection and treatment.

HPV Resources
Latest articles Most recent articles Ongoing trials	Wikipedia