To the numerous analyzes that women give during pregnancy, it would not hurt to add one that helps to identify the human papillomavirus. Symptoms of it are manifested not in every case, but it can not be called safe. Of the more than 600 of its varieties, there are many that contribute to the development of cancer.
The fact proved by doctors is that
HPV (human papillomavirus ) can cause cancer of the cervix, larynx, penis, and also contributes to the appearance of cervical erosion, dysplasia. Given these possible consequences, sexually active people need to be systematically checked by a doctor.
Symptoms
As mentioned above, not in every case the human papillomavirus manifests itself. Symptoms of it become noticeable at the time of weakening of the immune system. Warts appear on the lips, hands, and even more often on the labia, penis, and around the anus. Mostly they are beige, pink or white. The edges of such warts (they are also called condylomas) are uneven, sometimes they grow inside - into the skin. In some cases, such additional symptoms may also be observed:
- itching at the sites of genital warts;
- irritation;
- pain in the affected area;
- discomfort during an intimate relationship.
Infection methods
According to doctors, it is through unprotected sexual contact (including through oral and anal) that it is easiest to get the human papillomavirus. Symptoms in this case occur approximately 3 months after the act, but this is not necessary. There is a high probability of infection during childbirth, when the virus is transmitted from mother to child. The fact of its transmission through the placenta by doctors is also not refuted. The third way of infection is household. It is especially dangerous to share hygiene products - towels, toothbrushes, tweezers, scissors, etc.).
Diagnostics
Today, there are several basic techniques that help identify the human papillomavirus. Symptoms if already manifested, then a visual examination of the mucous membranes is carried out. Women are also examined on a gynecological chair. Early diagnosis is made possible by:
- coloscopy - examination using a microscope;
- biopsies - it involves taking samples of affected tissues for detailed examination under a magnifying device (this method allows you to detect cancer in almost 98% of cases);
- PCR method - it is aimed at finding the pathogen;
- cytological examination of the smear - detects changes, but does not “see” the cause;
- Digene-Test - indicates the presence / absence of HPV in the body, gives information about its danger.
Ideally, several methods are used to detect the human papillomavirus. Passing a blood test also does not hurt.
Treatment
Since there are many varieties of HPV, as noted earlier, there simply cannot be one treatment regimen. To overcome the problem, doctors prescribe mainly antiviral and immunostimulating drugs. Warts and condylomas are removed surgically using liquid nitrogen (cryotherapy), electric current (electrocoagulation), and a laser. Humanity can overcome this virus through vaccination from it, that is, by directing its attention to prevention. Such a vaccination does not provide for the introduction of microorganisms, but helps those cells that do not allow HPV to enter the body.