Many are interested in what papillomavirus is, how it is transmitted, what are the symptoms of the disease, and how treatment is carried out. HPV is a benign tumor, that is, a tumor with a very slow growth and development.
Papilloma looks like a convex formation with a wide base or on a stalk. These growths are somewhat reminiscent of warts. Their sizes can be from 1 mm to 3 cm. Their color can be different, from beige to brown.
Papilloma can form on the face, limbs, neck, genitals, in the mouth. HPV provokes a change in the tissues and leads to their uncharacteristic growth. Such growths not only look ugly, but also cause a lot of inconvenience, and can also cause many complications.
What is HPV?
What is papillomavirus and how to cope with it, should know every person who has been diagnosed. Scientists have proven that HPV is a very special microorganism. According to studies, absolutely all people are infected with it from early childhood.
Certain types of this pathogen provoke the appearance of warts, papillomas or moles. A special type of this virus, provoking the appearance of genital warts, is transmitted during sexual intercourse.
There are over 100 different types of papillomaviruses, and certain types of virus can cause the formation of a malignant tumor. Each type of infection has its own specific clinical signs. Comprehensive treatment is required, but you need to know that you can’t get rid of the disease forever.
A feature of each pathogen is that it has a unique DNA structure. After infection penetrates the skin, microbes quite quickly infect the epithelium. Various lesions of the skin and mucous membrane can accelerate infection.
Symptoms of HPV may not appear immediately, since it can live in the body for a long time. After some time, viruses begin to multiply actively, which provokes the appearance of characteristic signs.
Main varieties
It is important not only to know what papillomavirus is, but also what types of this disease are. It is necessary to understand exactly what danger this infection poses so that appropriate measures can be taken in a timely manner to prevent the development of malignant neoplasms.
Some types of HPV provoke the development of genital warts, as well as various neoplasms, while others cause cancer. Strains of pathology are divided into risk groups, namely:
- do not cause the development of a malignant tumor;
- have a low risk of oncogenicity;
- with a high probability of cancer.
Papillomavirus type 16 and 18 are quite common. These are the most common species among the infected population. It occurs in approximately 50% of people with the virus. HPV type 16 has high oncogenicity.
The disease does not occur immediately after the virus enters the body. Only after a decrease in immunity, the body's natural defense is blocked and various neoplasms begin to appear.
In the presence of papillomavirus in women of type 16, dark spots with an uneven and rough surface form in the perineum. Similar neoplasms are called bowenoid papulosis. Another clear sign is the presence of genital warts, which form on the eyelids, neck and armpits.
A dangerous manifestation of papillomavirus type 16 and 18 is neoplasia on the cervical mucosa. A similar violation refers to the manifestations of a cancerous tumor.
Papillomavirus type 18 provokes the appearance of genital warts in men. In some cases, cancer of the oral mucosa, penis is formed. Type 18 papillomavirus in women can cause cervical cancer. This type of virus is considered one of the most dangerous and requires immediate treatment.
Papillomavirus type 31 refers to a dangerous infection with a high degree of oncogenicity. The first signs of the onset of the disease are observed when exposed to factors such as:
- hypothermia, colds;
- weakened immunity;
- sexually transmitted diseases;
- disruptions in the hormonal system;
- acute period of the course of chronic diseases.
This type of virus is equally dangerous for women and men. The HPV type 31 is manifested by the formation of genital warts and papillomas in the perineum. In addition, vaginal discharge, itching during urination, pain with intimacy, discomfort may appear.
Type 33 papillomavirus is oncogenic and provokes the formation of smooth nodules on the external genitalia. It provokes the occurrence of benign neoplasms, which after a while become malignant.
Causes of occurrence
HPV is very contagious. There are many ways to transmit the infection. Among the causes of papillomavirus in women, it is necessary to distinguish such as:
- other people's hygiene products;
- decreased immunity;
- open wounds and scratches;
- violation of the microflora of the vagina;
- severe stress;
- sexual contact with an infected person;
- the presence of sexually transmitted diseases;
- bad habits.
A child can become infected during childbirth if the mother has papillomas on the genitals. This form of the disease is quite difficult to treat.
Infection mainly occurs during sexual contact. However, the use of a condom as a contraceptive does not provide complete protection. In the case of infection, the person becomes only a carrier of the virus until it is activated.
If the immunity is quite strong, then the body can completely cope with the papillomavirus on its own, preventing its development.
Main symptoms
It is important not only to know exactly what papillomavirus is, but also what specific symptoms are characteristic for the course of infection in the body. Signs and manifestations of HPV:
- papillomas;
- warts;
- cervical dysplasia;
- cancer.
Depending on the type and DNA of the papillomavirus, there may be a variety of manifestations in patients. Warts can be of several types, namely:
Flat warts can be triggered by types 3 and 5 of the virus. They are small elevations on the skin and they are formed mainly in children. Sponges or plantar warts occur due to the penetration of types 1 and 2 of the virus. Vulgar neoplasms appear on the fingers and are provoked by type 2 viruses.
Genital warts are formed on the genitals and in the anus, on the lips and in the oral cavity. They are provoked by type 6, 11, 13, 16, 18, 31 and 35 viruses. They are transmitted mainly through sexual contact. Sometimes a contact method of transmission may occur.
If a woman suffering from genital warts has a baby, then he also becomes infected, and he may also have condylomas or papillomatosis of the larynx and respiratory organs. However, the frequency of such symptoms in infants is quite low. Children have high immunity, which protects them from the development of infection.
With laryngeal papillomatosis, multiple papilloma outgrowths form on the vocal cords. They are mainly triggered by type 11 HPV. Sometimes it appears in children born to women with genital warts.
Bowenoid papulosis is a flat, small wart that forms around the genitals. Often, such neoplasms occur in men who are constantly changing sexual partners.
Often with papillomavirus, the cervix is infected, which leads to dysplasia and cancer. This is the most common type of HPV malignant course.
Type 18 papillomavirus can cause penile skin cancer. In addition, a malignant tumor of many organs and systems can occur. It is worth remembering that absolutely any infection that is constantly in the human body is activated only with a decrease in immunity.
Diagnostics
In order to accurately diagnose, when the first symptoms appear, it is necessary to take an analysis for papillomavirus. Using the PCR reaction, the presence of papilloma virus DNA in the patient’s material can be determined. Material for analysis is taken from the mucous membrane of the vagina and cervix of women. In men, the fence is carried out with the mucous membrane of the penis.
PCR analysis helps to detect the presence of the virus even in a latent state, which is why it is important to determine the concentration of the virus or the viral load. The reaction can give a false result, especially if the conditions of the procedure are violated.
Additionally, you can conduct a special test and take an analysis for papillomavirus. This is a new, modern study that is rapidly gaining popularity. The test is used to determine the presence of high rates of the virus. Thanks to such a study, it is possible to determine the degree of oncogenicity of viruses. It is used in combination with a cytological examination of the cervix, and the result is also evaluated comprehensively.
PAP test involves the analysis and study of a smear taken during a gynecological examination. In this case, the doctor under a microscope determines the presence or absence of pathologically altered cells, which normally should not be, but they appear only when the disease develops.
Histological examination helps to determine the presence of a malignant neoplasm. Additionally, a consultation with a gynecologist or urologist is required.
Treatment features
High-risk papillomavirus oncology necessarily requires constant monitoring and control by a doctor. In addition, complex treatment is required, which implies:
- removal of papillomas;
- the use of topical preparations;
- the use of antiviral agents;
- cytostatic drugs;
- treatment of concomitant diseases.
When conducting HPV therapy, it is necessary to take into account the existing symptoms, as well as diseases that a person may have. In addition, potential complications are of great importance. Only a dermatologist can prescribe the treatment correctly.
It is strictly forbidden to try to remove the neoplasms on your own, as this can only do harm. The infection will only grow further and it will be difficult to stop it.
When conducting therapy, it is necessary to increase immunity, as this will help to more effectively fight papillomas. HPV treatment methods are selected separately for each patient. During the treatment of neoplasms on the genitals, it is necessary to undergo it together with the sexual partner and temporarily abandon sexual contacts.
Drug treatment
The treatment of human papillomavirus in women and men is carried out with the help of medications. They should be prescribed only by a qualified doctor after the examination.
If there is a risk of malignant neoplasm, then the drug Allokin-Alpha is prescribed. To quickly eliminate the manifestation of the virus, taking Groprinosin Panavir is required.
The drug "Viferon" is used as an adjuvant as part of complex therapy. This medicine helps to eliminate neoplasms on the skin. Assign it in combination with the main therapy.
The drug "Genferon" has an antiviral effect, eliminates the symptoms of HPV, and also improves immunity. Tools such as Isinplex, Levamisole and Immunomax contribute to more effective therapy. Reduce the size of papillomas will help Cycloferon and interferon ointment. If a significant area is affected, it is recommended to use Vartek and Podophylline. These are good and effective cures for multiple papillomatosis.
Papilloma removal
With high-risk papillomatosis, the removal of a neoplasm is required. For this, such treatment methods are used as:
- cryodestruction;
- radio wave thickening;
- laser excision;
- conducting an operation.
During cryodestruction, liquid nitrogen is used for freezing. A big plus is that after the procedure there are no scars and scars. Radio wave thickening involves excision of papillomas with a radio wave scalpel.
Diathermocoagulation - the elimination of neoplasms with an electroscalpel and electricity. Removal of growths can be carried out using a laser. A great advantage of this technique is that it can be used even during pregnancy.
The operation is prescribed only in the case of an extensive numerous lesion or in the presence of suspected malignant tumor. It is carried out under local anesthesia. The main disadvantage of hardware treatment is the presence of scars, and there is also a high probability of relapse. That is why combination therapy is required.
Folk remedies
Some women, with the timely detection of the papilloma virus, resort to traditional medicine methods. However, it is worth noting that doctors do not recommend the use of unconventional drugs. They should be used only in combination with medications.
You can lubricate papillomas with freshly squeezed potato juice several times a day. Celandine is considered a good remedy. Steam the problem area and grease with vegetable oil. After a few minutes, grease the papilloma with celandine. A similar procedure should be carried out twice a day. It is important not to affect healthy areas.
Lubricate condylomas 3-4 times a day with castor oil until they disappear completely. To suppress the virus in the body, phyto harvests are used. Sometimes they replace drugs, in particular, such as immunomodulators.
When applying traditional methods, a doctor’s consultation is required, since self-medication can lead to dangerous consequences.
HPV during pregnancy
Papillomavirus of the cervix does not affect reproductive function, that is, the infection does not in any way prevent a woman from having a baby. If a virus was detected during pregnancy, then you must:
- find a good gynecologist and constantly observe until the birth;
- remove papillomas and warts after the birth of the baby;
- minimize drug intake.
The tactics of therapy largely depends on what kind of woman will have manifestations of infection. The virus does not affect the fetus at all. A child may become infected while passing through the birth canal.
In the presence of pronounced changes on the cervix, a pregnant woman may be offered a cesarean section. In the absence of severe symptoms, delivery is allowed in a natural way. Caesarean section with HPV is very rare. In addition, the manifestations of infection in children are also very rare and insignificant.
Possible complications
The type and severity of papillomavirus infection is largely determined by the type of virus pathogen and its activity. The severity of the pathology is influenced by factors such as:
- genetic predisposition;
- frequent childbirth and abortion;
- inflammation of the cervix.
The likelihood of cervical cancer increases with prolonged exposure to the virus pathogen in the body.
If treatment is neglected, then condylomas and papillomas can begin to fester and spread throughout the body. This leads to a significant deterioration in health. It is worth remembering that HPV does not always provoke cancer. If a virus with high oncogenicity is present in the body, then malignant tumors develop only when the immune system is weakened.
What can be the disease with HPV infection
Warts vary in their appearance, structure, and localization. When the first signs of the disease appear, you need to undergo an examination to determine the genotyping of papillomaviruses, since the clinical picture is determined by the type of virus.
HPV types 1 and 2 provoke the appearance of plantar warts. Moreover, the type 1 virus causes the formation of growths with deep roots, which are difficult to treat. The second type of HPV leads to the formation of painless growths. In addition, it causes the appearance of vulgar warts, which are often found in adolescents and children and pass on their own without treatment.
Type 3 and 5 virus provokes the formation of flat growths on the hands and face. Mostly they are in their teens and pass on their own.
Genital warts cause type 6 and 11 viruses. They are localized on the genitals, oral mucosa and near the anus. HPV type 11 provokes laryngeal papillomatosis, which is transmitted to the baby during childbirth. An adult can become infected through oral sex. The patient complains of difficulty with swallowing and hoarseness. Excessive formation of papillomas can lead to suffocation.
In women, HPV provokes the occurrence of genital warts. However, sometimes the disease proceeds secretly.If genital warts are not detected in a timely manner, then they will ripen until the onset of menopause and during this time will lead to the development of cancer. The most dangerous viruses are 16 and 18 of the strain.
HPV in men can also occur secretly, but there are exceptions. Infection can lead to the appearance of a bowenoid papulosis, in which flat growths with a rough surface appear on the skin. The more sexual partners, the higher the risk of infection. At the first signs of the disease, you need to visit a doctor, since the development of oncology is not ruled out.
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Prophylaxis
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In case of accidental sexual relations, contraceptives should be used. However, it is worth remembering that condoms do not guarantee complete protection against HPV. It is important to monitor immunity and timely treat the pathology of the genitourinary system.
Vaccination
Viruses have a high risk of degeneration from a benign to a malignant tumor, which must be eliminated very quickly. It is worth remembering that it is impossible to completely remove the infection from the body, which is why it is necessary to vaccinate for the purpose of prevention.
3 injections are made every 6 months. Vaccination is required for girls aged 10-17 years.