Although most genital infections caused by HPV regress spontaneously, a small proportion, if not identified and treated, can evolve into cancer.
How, then, to identify the papilloma virus early and find effective treatment? In this guide we will tell you about the symptoms of HPV, its diagnosis, and the importance of undergoing a venereological examination to treat lesions.
Let’s start right away.
What you need to know about the papilloma virus
From symptoms of papilloma virus in men and women to venereology examination, here is a wealth of useful information on how to identify HPV early.
What is papilloma virus?
As we mentioned, the HPV virus declines into more than 100 strains, each of which can have different manifestations (and different severity).
Usually, the virus replicates by exploiting skin and mucosal cells; at this point, overgrowth (hyperplasia) causes the typical formations: condylomas and papillomas of the skin and mucous membranes.
Sometimes these growths are lined with a layer of keratin (hyperkeratosis) typical of some forms of the infection.
The most dangerous strains of HPV papilloma virus are those that generate malignant lesions that can affect:
- Upper airways, such as larynx, pharynx, tongue, tonsils, palate, nose;
- Male genitalia, as HPV in men can manifest with genital lesions and warts on glans, penis, and scrotum for men;
- Female genitalia, where lesions can affect areas of the perineum, vagina, uterus, cervix.
There is currently an HPV papilloma virus vaccine available that covers young women from the most dangerous strains; it is advisable to get the vaccine for girls in the pre-menarche age group or, at any rate, with an age no older than 26 years.
How HPV infection is transmitted.
Papilloma virus: how is it transmitted? The transmission mechanism of the HPV virus is sexual in nature: this, in fact, falls under the so-called STDs (Sexually Transmitted Diseases).
Transmission of infection could also occur through physical contact, if there are active viral cells and if cuts or lacerations are present in the skin and mucous membranes.
In general, regarding transmission by the respiratory route, this is usually related to the practice of oral sex, through contact between the oral cavity and genitals.
However, transmission of the virus is also not ruled out in particularly promiscuous places such as public showers and swimming pools, through direct contact with surfaces previously used by HPV carriers.
HPV Virus: Symptoms
As we mentioned, the symptoms of HPV vary depending on the strain of the virus you are infected with.
Some types of skin manifestations found may be:
- Flat and vulgar warts;
- Papillomas;
- Bowenoid papulosis;
- Flat or sharp chondylomas;
- Buschke-Lowenstein Tumor
All these skin manifestations can be detected in a venereological/dermatological examination, in which the specialist examines in detail the lesions presented by the patient and formulates the diagnosis.
Let us now look in detail at how HPV viruses are diagnosed.
HPV diagnosis: the venereological examination
Early detection and treatment of HPV is the basis for the success of any type of therapy.
Therefore, it is important to undergo a venereological examination. The venereologist specialist is the expert in Sexually Transmitted Diseases, a competence that falls under Dermatology, thus also of genital skin and mucous membranes who, through a thorough examination and conducting specific tests, is able to understand whether one has HPV and which strain, so that the infection can be treated promptly.
In general, the diagnosis of cytologic and/or histologic (i.e., cell or tissue) changes caused by potentially oncogenic HPV strains is achieved by Pap smears or special tests for the detection of viral DNA.
In some cases, if the specialist deems it necessary, genital mucosal biopsies may be taken.
Papilloma virus: how to treat it
From the outcome of the venereological examination, the best treatment for HPV can be defined, and together with the specialist the best path to solve the problem can be evaluated.
Specifically, treatment varies depending on the HPV strain from which one is affected. Systemic Nonspecific Immune Therapy is useful for implementing the general immune system by taking products aimed at amplifying the cellular and humoral response of the body’s defense system.
Topical immunologic therapy may be prescribed by the venereologist, usually after ablative therapy. Through the action of topical products, more severe condylomatous manifestations can be reduced and the risk of recurrence significantly lowered.
For the removal of lesions caused by HPV, ablative therapy allows the use of several tools, such as Diathermocoagulation and CO2 Laser Therapy.
Do you think you have a suspicious lesion and wish to have investigations?
Rely on us: at our dermatology office, venereological examinations can be performed to prevent and treat all diseases related to sexuality.
We are located in Rome, at 212 Via Cola di Rienzo. To book your visit, email us or call 06 45471658
