Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Infection: Meaning, Symptoms, Treatment

Written by Medicover Team and Medically Reviewed by Dr B Vijaya Sree , Dermatology

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Human Papillomavirus (HPV) infection is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections (STIs) worldwide. It is caused by the human papillomavirus, a group of more than 200 related viruses. While most HPV infections clear up on their own, some types can lead to serious health issues like genital warts, cervical cancer or other cancers of the reproductive tract, throat and anus.

HPV spreads primarily through intimate skin to skin contact, making it highly contagious. In fact, nearly every sexually active person will get HPV at some point in their life, though not everyone develops symptoms or complications. Understanding HPV is essential for prevention, early detection and treatment.

Types of HPV Infection

HPV infections are grouped by the type of virus and the health risks they may cause. Some strains are low-risk and lead to minor conditions, while others are high-risk and linked to serious complications.

Low-risk HPV types

These strains usually cause benign growths such as genital warts. While they rarely develop into cancer, they can still bring discomfort, emotional stress and the need for treatment.

High-risk HPV types

High-risk strains are more concerning because they can alter cells and increase the risk of cancers, especially cervical cancer. They are also linked to cancers of the vulva, vagina, anus, penis, and throat.

Cutaneous HPV

Certain strains mainly affect the skin, leading to common warts on the hands, feet or other body areas. These infections are not related to sexual activity and are usually harmless.

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Symptoms of Human Papillomavirus Infection

Most people with HPV never develop noticeable symptoms, which is why the infection often goes undetected. However, when symptoms appear, they depend on the type of HPV strain.

Common human papillomavirus infection symptoms include:

• Small, flesh-colored or gray growths in the genital area, sometimes forming clusters.
• Rough, raised bumps that appear on hands, fingers or elbows.
• Hard, grainy lesions on the soles of the feet that may cause discomfort.
• Slightly raised, flat-topped spots that often appear on the face or legs.
• High-risk HPV may show no visible signs but can be detected through Pap smears or other screenings.
• Rare cases where HPV causes wart-like growths in the airways, making breathing difficult.

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Causes of Human Papillomavirus

Human Papillomavirus (HPV) spreads mainly through intimate contact but may also occur in non-sexual ways. Knowing the human papillomavirus causes helps in prevention and early care.

Sexual contact: HPV most often spreads through vaginal, anal or oral sex with an infected partner, even if no symptoms are visible.

Non-sexual transmission: Less common but possible, HPV can spread through shared items like razors or from mother to baby during childbirth.

Weakened immune system: A weak immune system makes it harder to clear HPV naturally, leading to persistent or recurring infections.

Multiple sexual partners: Having several sexual partners increases the likelihood of HPV exposure and infection risk.

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When to See a Doctor

You should consult a doctor if you experience:

• Unusual growths, bumps or warts in the genital or anal area.
• Persistent sore throat, hoarseness or difficulty swallowing (possible sign of HPV in the throat).
• Abnormal vaginal bleeding or discharge.
• Severe discomfort, itching or pain in genital regions.
• Test results showing abnormal cervical changes.

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Diagnosis of HPV Infection

Doctors diagnose HPV using physical exams, lab tests and imaging methods. Understanding human papillomavirus diagnosis is important to detect visible warts, abnormal cell changes, or high-risk HPV strains.

• Doctors can often identify HPV by checking for visible genital or skin warts.
• A Pap smear helps detect abnormal or precancerous changes in cervical cells.
• HPV DNA test identifies high-risk HPV strains linked to cancer.
• Colposcopy uses a magnifying device to closely examine the cervix.
• A biopsy involves taking a small tissue sample to confirm abnormal or cancerous changes.

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Risk Factors of Human Papillomavirus

Certain factors increase the likelihood of HPV infection or complications. Key Human Papillomavirus risk factors include:

• Having multiple sexual partners.
• Early sexual activity.
• Weakened immune system due to HIV, medications or chronic illness.
• Smoking, which impairs the body's ability to clear HPV.
• A history of other sexually transmitted infections.
• Long-term use of oral contraceptives (linked to cervical changes).

Human Papillomavirus Infection Treatments

There is currently no cure for HPV itself, but treatments can manage its symptoms and complications:

Genital warts

Genital warts are small bumps or clusters in the genital area caused by HPV. They are not cancerous but can cause itching, discomfort and stress. Treatment helps relieve symptoms and prevent spread.

• Topical creams (imiquimod, podophyllin)
• Freezing (cryotherapy) to destroy warts
• Burning (electrocautery) to remove growths
• Surgical removal for extensive warts

Precancerous changes

HPV can cause abnormal cell growth in the cervix, vagina or anus. These precancerous changes may progress into cancer if untreated, but early detection makes them manageable.

• Loop electrosurgical excision (LEEP)
• Cone biopsy
• Laser therapy

Cancer caused by HPV

Persistent HPV infection may lead to cervical, anal, throat, or other cancers. Treatment depends on the stage but aims to remove or destroy cancerous cells and stop spread.

• Surgery
• Chemotherapy
• Radiation therapy

Boosting immunity

A strong immune system helps the body clear HPV naturally and lowers the risk of recurrence. Lifestyle changes play a key role in strengthening the body's defense.

• Quit smoking
• Eat a balanced diet
• Manage stress

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Prevention of HPV

Prevention is key to reducing HPV infection and complications:

• HPV vaccine protects against common high-risk and low-risk strains.
• Safe sex practices using condoms lower risk, though not completely.
• Regular screening with Pap smears and HPV testing catches problems early.
• Limiting sexual partners reduces exposure to infection.
• Strengthening immunity helps the body clear infections faster.

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Conclusion

Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is a common infection that often goes unnoticed but can cause significant health problems if left unmanaged. While most infections clear naturally, some lead to genital warts or cancers. Understanding human papillomavirus infection symptoms, risk factors and treatment options helps individuals make informed choices about their health. With preventive steps like vaccination and regular checkups, HPV's long term effects can be reduced or avoided altogether.

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