Human Papillomavirus/ Genital Warts and Herpes

Introduction

The Human Papilloma Virus, otherwise more commonly known as HPV, is the most widespread sexually transmitted disease in the United States. There are millions of new cases that are diagnosed annually. According to Medical News Today, “Each year, around 19,400 women and 12,100 men in the U.S. are affected by cancers that stem from HPV” (Medical News Today, 2022). Understanding the etiology, signs, and symptoms of HPV is crucial for prevention and treatment.

Etiology

Some of the most known causes of HPV are the following:

• Genital HPV infections are contracted through skin-to-skin contact in the genital area, anal sex, and sexual intercourse. Some HPV infections that arise in oral or upper respiratory lesions are acquired through oral sex.
• HPV appears when the virus enters the body through a cut or abrasion on the skin. This highlights the importance of maintaining skin integrity and being cautious about potential exposure.
• If you are pregnant and have contracted the HPV virus with genital warts, it may complicate the pregnancy by the warts increasing in size, which would make it hard for the baby to come through the birth canal, and multiplying in numbers.
• In many HPV cases, the immune system attacks the virus before the warts have time to develop. If the warts do appear, they can appear in different forms and sizes according to the type of HPV you have.

Signs and Symptoms

Some of the most common signs of the disease are the different types of warts. Here are some of them:

• Genital Warts: Genital warts form on the vulva, cervix, vagina, or near the anus in women. In men, they form on the penis, scrotum, and near the anus. These warts are typically seen as flat lesions or tiny bumps.
• Plantar Warts: Plantar warts are usually found on the heels of the feet. They are hard, flesh-like bumps.
• Flat Warts: These warts are usually flat in shape, darker in color, and raise just a little above the skin. They are typically found anywhere on the body; in children, they can usually be found on the areas of the face.
• Common Warts: These are spots on the hands, elbows, and fingers that are usually raised.
• Cervical Cancer: In the first stages of cervical cancer, you may not develop warts or any symptoms, which may make it harder to detect. Almost all cervical cancer is caused by some kind of HPV. According to the Mayo Clinic, “Over time, repeated infection of certain HPV strains can lead to precancerous lesions. If not treated, these lesions can become cancerous” (Mayo Clinic, 2023).

Understanding the various manifestations of HPV is essential for early detection and prevention of complications. It is also important to note that HPV can be asymptomatic, which underscores the importance of regular medical check-ups and screenings.

Conclusion

HPV is a prevalent and potentially serious infection with a range of symptoms and complications. By increasing awareness and understanding of its causes, signs, and symptoms, individuals can take proactive steps to protect themselves and reduce the spread of this virus. Regular screening and vaccination can significantly decrease the risk of HPV-related health issues.

References

• Medical News Today. (2022). HPV and cancer: What is the link? Retrieved from https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/hpv-and-cancer
• Mayo Clinic. (2023). Cervical cancer. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/cervical-cancer/symptoms-causes/syc-20352501