Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a group of more than 150 different types of viruses that can infect human epithelial tissues. HPV is classified into low- and high-oncogenic types. Many subtypes can cause benign growths such as warts and calluses, but some are associated with more serious conditions including cervical, penile, anal, and pharyngeal cancers. Most infections are asymptomatic and may resolve on their own, but some people may develop chronic infection with the risk of developing malignancies. Effective prevention methods include vaccination, which can significantly reduce the incidence of the disease in the population.
History of the disease and interesting historical facts
The history of human papillomavirus research dates back to the 1930s, when papillomas were first discovered in animals, sparking research into their viral nature. In the 1980s, major advances were made in identifying the link between HPV and cervical cancer, thanks to work by scientists such as Professor Harald zur Hausen, who won the Nobel Prize in 2008 for his discoveries. Interestingly, the HPV vaccine, Gardasil, was approved in 2006 and was the first vaccine to protect against cancer. This was a major step in preventing HPV-related diseases, changing the way we fight the infection and its consequences.
Epidemiology
According to the World Health Organization, the prevalence of HPV among sexually active people reaches 80%. More than 290 million women worldwide live with HPV infection, many of whom are unaware of it. Each year, about 570,000 cases of cervical cancer are registered, most of which are associated with highly oncogenic types of the virus. HPV is the most common viral infection transmitted sexually, and about 50% cases of infection are types 16 and 18, which are highly carcinogenic.
Genetic predisposition to this disease
Research suggests that genetic susceptibility to HPV may be due to differences in how the immune system responds to the virus. Certain gene polymorphisms related to immune functions, such as genes responsible for coding interferons and cytokines, may affect susceptibility to infection. For example, mutations in HLA genes may alter the body’s ability to recognize and respond to infected cells. This may explain why some people are able to fight off the virus more easily, while others may develop chronic infection.
Risk factors for the development of this disease
Risk factors that contribute to the development of HPV infection include:
- Improper hygiene of the genitals;
- Simple infections or inflammatory processes in the genital area;
- Immunodeficiency states;
- Incorrect or insufficient use of barrier contraception;
- Multiple sexual partners;
- Early onset of sexual activity and frequent change of partners;
- Smoking.
These factors can facilitate HPV infection and contribute to its chronicity.
Diagnosis of this disease
Diagnosis of HPV infection includes many methods:
- Consult a specialist doctor if you have characteristic symptoms, such as new growths on the skin or mucous membranes;
- Laboratory tests, including PCR to detect viral DNA and tests for oncogenic types;
- Radiological examinations, in particular colposcopy to visualize the cervix;
- Tissue biopsy in case of suspected malignancy;
- A differential diagnosis that helps to exclude other problems such as infectious or inflammatory diseases.
These methods allow for accurate diagnosis of infection and determination of further patient management tactics.
Treatment
Treatment for HPV infection varies depending on the type of virus and the stage of the disease. It may include:
- General treatment aimed at supporting the immune system;
- Pharmacological treatment, including antiviral drugs and immunostimulants;
- Surgical treatment to remove papillomas, condylomas or atypical areas of tissue;
- Other treatments such as cryodestruction and laser therapy.
The goal of treatment is to relieve symptoms and prevent disease progression.
List of medications used to treat this disease
Medicines used to treat HPV infection include:
- Diclofenac (anti-inflammatory);
- Immunostimulants - interferon alpha;
- Topical preparations - podophyllotoxin and imiquimod;
- Systemic antiviral agents - alpha interferons.
The choice of specific treatment depends on the stage of the disease and the individual characteristics of the patient.
Disease monitoring
Monitoring for HPV infection includes regular checkups and laboratory tests to:
- Control stages, such as regular tests for papillomas and cancer screening;
- Disease prognosis assessments;
- Identification and prevention of possible complications, including precancerous changes;
- Determination of second line therapy in case of relapse.
This strategy helps in early detection of malignant changes and increases the chances of successful treatment.
Age-related features of the disease
Different age groups have their own characteristics in the course of HPV infection:
- In young people under 25, sexual activity can lead to a high prevalence of the virus;
- In women over 30 years of age, the risk of oncological diseases associated with the catalysis of chronic infection increases;
- In old age, there is a decrease in the immune response, which can worsen the course of the disease.
These factors highlight the need for early detection and control of infection.
Questions and Answers
- What is the risk of developing cervical cancer if you have HPV? The risk increases significantly in the presence of highly oncogenic types of the virus in combination with other factors such as smoking and immunodeficiency.
- Is it possible to get rid of HPV completely? In most cases, the infection goes away on its own, but some types can lead to chronic conditions.
- What vaccinations should I get to protect myself from HPV? Vaccination is recommended before the onset of sexual activity, preferably between ages 9 and 14, with two doses for adequate protection.
- How often should I get tested for HPV? Annual screening is recommended for women and regular checkups are recommended for men, especially if symptoms are present.
- What if the infection recurs after treatment? It is important to consult your doctor for recommendations for re-treatment and lifestyle changes.
Advice from Dr. Oleg Korzhikov
Dr. Oleg Korzhikov recommends: "It is important to remember about regular medical examinations and vaccination as key elements of HPV prevention. Taking vitamin complexes and maintaining a healthy lifestyle strengthens the immune system and increases protection against infection. If symptoms are present, you should consult a doctor for timely diagnosis and treatment. You should not avoid examinations, as early detection significantly increases the chances of successful recovery."
