HPV Infection

Learn HPV Infection in 5 minutes

Overview

HPV infection is a viral infection caused by the human papillomavirus. There are over 100 types of HPV, some of which can cause skin or mucous membrane growths (warts). HPV infections can be transmitted sexually or through other skin-to-skin contact. While most HPV infections don't lead to cancer, certain types of genital HPV can cause cancer of the cervix, as well as cancers of the anus, penis, vagina, vulva, and back of the throat. The HPV vaccine can help protect against the strains of HPV most likely to cause genital warts or cervical cancer. Common symptoms of HPV infections include the appearance of warts, which can vary in appearance depending on the type of HPV involved. Cervical cancer often has no noticeable symptoms in its early stages, so regular screening tests are important for early detection. If you or your child have warts causing embarrassment, discomfort, or pain, consult a doctor.

Understanding the disease

Symptoms

The symptoms of HPV infection can vary depending on the type of infection and whether it is genital or non-genital. Some common symptoms of genital HPV infection may include:

1. Sores or bumps on the genitals or in the oral or rectal area
2. Painful or burning urination
3. Discharge from the penis
4. Unusual or odorous vaginal discharge
5. Unusual vaginal bleeding
6. Pain during sex
7. Sore, swollen lymph nodes, particularly in the groin but sometimes more widespread
8. Lower abdominal pain
9. Fever
10. Rash over the trunk, hands or feet It's important to note that many HPV infections don't have any noticeable symptoms, and the immune system often defeats the virus before it causes warts. However, if you experience any of these symptoms, it is recommended to see a healthcare professional for an evaluation.

Risk Factors

The risk factors for developing HPV infection include:

1. Number of sexual partners: The more sexual partners you have, the higher your risk of contracting an HPV infection.
2. Sexual activity at a young age: Individuals who become sexually active at a younger age are more likely to contract HPV.
3. Weakened immune system: People with weakened immune systems, such as those with HIV/AIDS or those taking immunosuppressive drugs after organ transplants, are at greater risk of HPV infections.
4. Personal contact: Touching someone with HPV warts or coming into contact with surfaces contaminated with the virus can increase your risk of infection.
5. Damaged skin: Areas of skin that are punctured or opened are more susceptible to common warts caused by HPV. It's important to note that most HPV infections do not lead to cancer or other serious health problems. The body's immune system usually fights off the infection before it causes any complications.

Development

The various HPV infections develop differently depending on the type of infection and the individual's immune system. Most HPV infections don't lead to cancer, and the body's immune system typically defeats the infection before it creates warts. When warts do appear, they vary in appearance depending on which kind of HPV is involved. In the case of genital HPV infections, certain strains can cause cervical cancer and other cancers of the genitals, anus, mouth, and upper respiratory tract. These infections are often transmitted sexually or through other skin-to-skin contact. For plantar warts, the risk of contracting HPV infections can be reduced by wearing shoes or sandals in public pools and locker rooms. Regarding common warts, it's difficult to prevent HPV infections that cause them. However, one can prevent the spread of the infection and formation of new warts by not picking at a wart and not biting nails. To reduce the risk of developing genital warts and other HPV-related genital lesions, one can engage in a mutually monogamous sexual relationship, reduce the number of sex partners, and use a latex condom, which can reduce the risk of HPV transmission. Cervical cancer typically doesn't cause noticeable symptoms until it's advanced. Early cervical cancer is often detected through regular screening tests, such as Pap tests and HPV DNA tests, which can identify precancerous changes in the cervix that might lead to cancer. In summary, the various HPV infections develop differently, depending on the type of infection and the individual's immune system. It's essential to follow preventive measures, engage in safe sexual practices, and undergo regular screening tests to minimize the risk of complications associated with HPV infections.

Assessment and Diagnosis

Diagnosis

To diagnose an HPV infection, a healthcare professional may perform one or more of the following tests:

1. Vinegar (acetic acid) solution test: A vinegar solution is applied to HPV-infected genital areas, which may help identify difficult-to-see flat lesions.
2. Pap test: A sample of cells is collected from the cervix or vagina to be analyzed in a laboratory. Pap tests can reveal abnormalities that could lead to cancer.
3. DNA test: This test, conducted on cells from the cervix, can detect the DNA of high-risk HPV strains linked to genital cancers. It's recommended for women over 30, in addition to the Pap test. For diagnosing sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), a healthcare professional will start with a sexual history and physical examination. They may also perform lab tests, such as blood tests, urine samples, or fluid samples, to confirm the diagnosis. Screening for STDs in asymptomatic individuals is not typically part of routine healthcare. For HPV infection, it's essential to ask your doctor questions about your symptoms, prevention, and any recommended treatments or follow-up procedures.

Management and Treatment

Complications

Potential complications of HPV infection include oral and upper respiratory lesions, cancer (such as cervical cancer, genital cancers, anal cancer, and cancers of the mouth and upper respiratory tract), and genital warts.

Prevention

HPV infections can be prevented through various means:

1. Vaccination: The HPV vaccine can protect against certain strains of HPV that can cause genital warts, cervical cancer, and other HPV-related cancers. It is recommended for both males and females between the ages of 9 and 26.
2. Safe sexual practices: Engaging in a mutually monogamous sexual relationship, reducing the number of sex partners, and using latex condoms can help reduce the risk of HPV transmission.
3. Avoiding skin-to-skin contact with warts: If you or your partner has a wart, avoid direct contact with the wart to prevent the spread of the infection.
4. Practicing good hygiene: Keeping the genital area clean and dry can help prevent the spread of HPV infections.
5. Avoiding sharing personal items: Not sharing towels, toothbrushes, or other personal items can help prevent the spread of HPV and other STIs. Remember, while these measures can help prevent HPV infections, it is still possible to contract the virus, especially through skin-to-skin contact during sexual intercourse. Regular screening and consulting with a healthcare provider are important for early detection and management of any HPV-related health issues.

Treatment

The body's immune system typically defeats an HPV infection before it creates warts, and that warts may be treated by a doctor. It is recommended to seek advice from a healthcare professional if warts cause embarrassment, discomfort, or pain. There is no specific treatment for the HPV virus itself, but some genital warts may be removed with prescription medications, freezing, or burning. Certain strains of HPV can lead to cancer, and regular screening tests, such as Pap tests, are important for early detection and prevention. Vaccination against HPV infection is also recommended to protect against the strains most likely to cause genital warts or cervical cancer.

Preparing for medical consultation

To prepare for an appointment for HPV infection, you should:

1. Gather information about your symptoms: Make a list of any symptoms you are experiencing, including any that seem unrelated to HPV infection. Note when each symptom started and whether it has worsened or improved.
2. Prepare a list of your medications and supplements: Compile a list of all medications, vitamins, or supplements you are taking, including the doses.
3. Prepare questions to ask your doctor: Write down a list of questions to ask your doctor about your HPV infection. Some basic questions to consider include:

• What's the medical name of the infection or infections I have?
• How is the infection transmitted?
• Will it keep me from having children?
• If I get pregnant, could I give it to my baby?
• Is it possible to catch this again?
• Could I have caught this from someone I had sex with only once?
• Could I give this to someone by having sex with that person just once?
• How long have I had it?

4. Be aware of any pre- or post-appointment restrictions: Ask your doctor if there are any restrictions or preparations you need to follow before or after the appointment, such as fasting or avoiding certain activities.
5. Note any relevant personal information: Prepare a list of key personal information, including recent life changes, major stresses, and your sexual history. By gathering this information and preparing thoughtful questions, you can make the most of your appointment and ensure a productive discussion with your doctor.