HPV

Diseases of the external genital organs are the most common, aggressive pathology today. For example, HPV infection is asymptomatic for a long time and can have serious consequences. Certain strains of the virus can lead to cancer of the rectum, vagina, and cervix. Therefore, it is important to make the diagnosis in a timely manner and begin appropriate treatment.

What is HPV?

Human papillomavirus is a common infection of the genital tract. This pathogen occurs in almost every sixth inhabitant of the planet. When infected, the pathogen enters the epithelial cells and disrupts the process of division, which activates the development of various diseases. Most often the virus infects the organs of the genitourinary system, the anorectal region. Diseases That Occur During HPV Infection:

1. The formation of genital warts.
2. Development of respiratory papillomatosis.
3. Damage to the genitals with the development of a tumor process.

Almost 70% of the population are carriers of the pathogen without clinical manifestations of the disease. Re-infection is also possible during life. Because not everyone who has had papillomavirus infections will develop resistance to the virus.

HPV types

There are currently more than 100 types of HPV known. Some of them are relatively safe for human health, while others can activate the development of the oncological process. Most clinical signs of the disease do not appear in the early stages. Usually the first symptoms appear after exposure to provoking factors.

According to the oncological activity, such viruses are divided into the following categories:

1. High risk of oncogenic strains (18, 16, 31, 33, etc. )
2. Low oncogenic risk strains (6, 11, 32, 40-44, 72)

Low-oncogenic virus strains lead to the appearance of warts and papillomas of the skin on the surface of the body.

Highly oncogenic strains cause genital warts to form in the anogenital zone, on the surface of the cervix in women and the penis in men.

Long-term exposure of 16, 18, 31, 33 types of the virus to the body can lead to cervical dysplasia and a more serious disease - cervical cancer.

However, even in the presence of HPV in the body with a high risk of oncogenic disease, oncological pathology does not always develop. If you turn to experienced doctors in a timely manner for diagnostic and correctly selected treatment, you can never be exposed to dangerous clinical manifestations of human papillomavirus.

How can you get infected?

Women and men are equally infected with this pathogen.

The main route of transmission is considered sexual. Usually, HPV becomes infected after the first sexual intercourse, but other ways of transmitting infections are also distinguished:

1. Vertical. That is, while passing through the birth canal of a woman infected with HPV, the newborn can become infected.
2. Autoinoculation. Self-infection (transmission from one part of the body to another) is possible during epilation or shaving.
3. Contact and household. The human papillomavirus remains viable in the environment for some time. Therefore, they can become infected after visiting public places (bathhouse, gym, swimming pool).
4. Contact. Possible infection through the wound surface on the skin or the mucous membranes (abrasions, wounds, bruises).
5. Sexually. The most common route of infection.

Anyone can get a viral infection. In order to get a timely diagnosis, you need to undergo preventive examinations with a doctor to determine the first symptoms of pathology.

The main manifestations of infection

The presence of papillomavirus infection can not have clinical manifestations for a long time. The incubation period of the disease can last for several years, during which the patient can become infected with various types of the virus. Signs of an HPV infection can only be observed after exposure to provoking factors (immunodeficiency, hypothermia, stressful situations). In most cases, after this infection, self-healing occurs within 1-2 years, but in some patients the pathology becomes chronic.

The disease can manifest itself with such formations:

1. Genital warts (genital warts). Outwardly, these are papillary growths that are similar in shape to cauliflower or a comb. They are flesh-colored or pink and can be single or multiple. They can form anywhere, but are most commonly found on the skin and genital lining. Formations are characterized by a low oncogenic potential. They rarely turn into malignant neoplasms and usually do not cause any discomfort to the patient.

2. Flat warts. They have a characteristic structure - they do not protrude above the surface of the mucous membrane of the affected organ. Such formations have high oncological potential, and therefore require a more thorough diagnosis. Usually located on the mucous membrane of the walls of the vagina, urethra, cervix. A biopsy is required to diagnose the type of condyloma.

3. Dysplasia. It is characterized by a violation of the differentiated structure of the tissue. Often there are atypical cells that can lead to the development of an oncological pathology.
4. Requires close observation and, if necessary, surgical correction.

Each of the forms of pathology must be carefully monitored by a doctor. To reduce the risk of developing an oncological process, it is recommended to remove such growths on the skin and mucous membranes.

HPV diagnosis

It is necessary to diagnose the presence of HPV gradually. A number of physical, laboratory, and instrumental studies are used to do this.

1. Examination by a doctor. It can help identify the presence of warts. If genital warts are found, the cervix must be examined. Ureteroscopy is also possible.
2. Colposcopy. Specific tests are carried out with acetic acid and iodine solution. With their help, you can determine the presence of atypical cells, signs of HPV infection and cervical cancer.
3. Cytological examination. Pap smears are taken on the cervical lining. This is a screening test for the presence of precancerous lesions and cancer cells in the wall of the vagina or cervix.

A histological examination of tissues can also be done to identify sexually transmitted diseases, which are often associated with HPV infection. The PCR method has a high diagnostic value. It can be used to identify the strain of HPV.

HPV (Human Papilloma Virus) treatment

It is impossible to completely remove the virus from the patient's body. The doctor can only deal with the consequences of the life of the infectious agent. As a general therapy, symptomatic agents, antivirals and drugs that stimulate immune processes can be used.

To combat different types of genital warts, the following can be used:

1. Cryodestruction, electrocoagulation, cautery with a laser or chemicals. Such methods are effective for getting rid of genital warts.
2. Electrosurgical treatment methods are used to remove the affected area on the surface of the cervix (dysplasia, condyloma).

Prevention of HPV

Various methods are used to prevent the development of the disease. The most effective are:

1. Monogamous relationships. You only have sex with someone who you are the only sexual partner to. This method will protect you from all sexually transmitted infections, including HPV.
2. The use of barrier contraception. It's simple, affordable, but not always 100% infection-proof. The patient can become infected with the virus even if the damaged skin comes in contact with the area.
3. Regular checkups. Girls need to be checked regularly by a gynecologist. This will allow you to identify the first signs of the disease and start treatment in a timely manner.
4. Vaccination. It is an effective and convenient preventive method. Vaccinations can be done for both men and women. The most effective vaccination is given before sexual activity (use is allowed from 9 years of age). Or people who are sexually active without contraindications.

If you suspect the presence of infection or the first manifestations of the disease, it is important to consult a doctor for a quality diagnosis and timely treatment.