Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection

Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection is a sexually transmitted disease that results in small, warty growths on the vulva, labia, cervix, vaginal walls or rectum. The labial and perineal warts are usually visible and palpable. The virus may also affect the cervix. Cervical changes are not always visible to the naked eye, but they show up in pap smears as koilocytosis. Some strains of the virus are associated with cervical cancer.

The perineal warts caused by HPV resolve without treatment. Treatment modalities include trichloroacetic acid, podophyllin, interferon, chemotherapeutic agents, electrocautery, and laser treatment. Condylox may be an option for use on external lesions. Those women diagnosed with HPV should have pap smears every six months for several years. Male partners should be evaluated by urologist, because HPV lesions may be difficult to visualize.

In males, infection of the genital tract with HPV is increasing prevalent. The infection usually manifests itself as genital warts, or genital condylomas. The risk for developing genitourinary cancers not only increase for the man with an HPV infection, but also for his sex partner. Therefore, diagnosing and treating the man with an HPV infection, such as condyloma acuminatum, is important to minimize cancer risks, as well as to decrease disease transmission.

Treatment methods for HPV infection include topical chemicals, cryosurgery with liquid nitrogen and laser therapy. Recurrence of HPV infection is common due to latent HPV infection in normal appearing skin. To be most effective, treatment needs to include both partners. Sexual abstinence during treatment and recovery is advised to minimize the spread of the disease. Using condoms and spermicides containing nonoxynol-9 for at least six months after treatment is also recommended to decrease HPV transmission, and transmission of other STDs as well, including HIV infection.

Recent studies show that HPV infection enhances susceptibility to HIV infection. They are also associated with nonchlamydial, nongonococcal urethritis. Those men and women affected with HPV infection benefit from counseling and support as with any other STD.