|  | Conditions Treatments | Viruses

Human Papilloma Virus Treatment

The human papillomavirus (HPV) causes warts and other abnormal growths on the genitals, hands, feet, mouth and other body parts. Of the some known 100 HPV types, around 40 cause warts in the genital region, and some forms of the virus are linked to an increase risk of cervical cancer in women. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), 50 percent of sexually-active individuals will get this type of HPV during their lifetimes. While there is no cure for HPV, there are treatments for HPV-related symptoms, as well as preventive measures that can be taken.

  1. HPV Wart Treatment

    • Genital warts are caused by HPV types 1 through 6 and typically resolve on their own. They can show up as flat lesions or cauliflower-like clusters on the vulva, anus or in the cervix or vagina in women, and on the penis, scrotum and anus in men. While they are typically not painful, they can be unsightly; some people may choose to have warts removed in a doctor's office through cryotherapy (freezing), electrocautery (burning off the warts using electricity), trichloroacetic acid treatments, surgical excision or laser surgery. Additionally, there are topical creams that a doctor may prescribe for genital warts, such as include Imiquimod and Podofilox, which go by the trade names Aldara and Condylox, respectively. A doctor is more likely to remove warts if they are determined to be pre-cancerous.

      Even in the absence of genital warts, a person can still spread the HPV virus on to others through sexual contact. The absence of genital warts does not mean that an individual is free from HPV; in fact, the CDC estimates that only one percent of the HPV-infected population exhibits warts at any given time.

    Treating HPV-Related Cancer

    • Treatment options for HPV-related cancers, such as cervical and anal cancer typically include surgery, radiation therapy and chemotherapy. However, the best way to avoid this type of aggressive treatment is by taking preventive measures. Women with HPV are encouraged to have frequent Pap testing, which identifies abnormal changes in the cervix before cancer is actually present. While cervical cancer is the most common form of HPV-related cancer, it can also occur in the penis, anus, vulva or vagina.

    Preventive HPV Treatment

    • Given the prevalence of HPV, the best way to avoid treating symptoms is to take preventive measures. There is a vaccination for HPV that immunizes women against four types of HPV that can cause genital warts and cervical cancer. This vaccination is recommended by the CDC for girls who are 11 and 12 years of age, but it's also appropriate for women up to the age of 26 who have not yet received the vaccine. Currently, there is no HPV vaccination for men.

      The only way to prevent HPV that causes genital warts and cancers is to remain abstinent. However, women who are sexually active should make sure that their partner uses a condom at all times. Condoms can significantly decrease the risk of spreading HPV (although it is still possible to contract HPV with condom use). Additionally, HPV can be prevented entirely when both partners remain monogamous.

Viruses - Related Articles