Human papillomavirus: what is dangerous and who is at risk

HPV type 16 is the causative agent of an infectious viral disease that manifests itself as benign tumor formations on the mucous membranes. The virus is one of the most common types with a high carcinogenic risk (HCR). This strain of the virus is considered one of the most common.

What is HPV type 16 and symptoms?

Hpv 16 (papillomavirus) poses a threat to women; it develops against the background of cervical erosion and epithelial dysplasia - background conditions of malignant transformation of cells located in the epidermis. Men can also become infected, but they have a lower incidence of cancer complications.

HPV infection is characterized by clinical signs, which include the appearance of genital warts, flat condylomas in the area of ​​the external and internal genital organs, in the vagina, near the anus or in the perineum.

Human papillomavirus type 16 rarely manifests itself as papillomatosis. It is characterized by epithelial dysplasia, pseudo-erosion and associated complications (colpitis, cervicitis), often found in gynecology.

Why is papillomavirus 16 dangerous?

Papillovarius type 16 is dangerous due to the presence in the DNA structure of special genes responsible for the synthesis of oncoproteins E6 and E7, which contribute to the malignant degeneration of growths. At the same time, the risk of malignancy is high.

The danger is posed by the integrated form of the virus, when there are no clinical signs and the person is unaware of the infection. HPV type 16 DNA is integrated into the genetic apparatus of the host cell and the synthesis of viral proteins necessary to complete the assembly of new viral particles begins.

Certain HPV genes control the process of cell malignancy. These include DNA fragments involved in the synthesis of early proteins E1-E7, necessary for regulating genome reproduction.

The p53 protein regulates cell cycle duration. Binding and disruption of their work by oncoproteins leads to cell degeneration, which is a key point in the development of endocervical neoplasia.

In addition to cancer and ectopia (erosion) of the cervix, HPV 16 can provoke the appearance of Bowen's disease.

Routes of transmission of the virus

HPV type 16 can be transmitted through contact and household contact. The first route of transmission is through direct contact with the skin or mucous membranes of an infected person. This is facilitated by the presence of small cracks and injuries on the surface. The causes of infection are the following:

• sexual intercourse;
• constant change of partners.

During childbirth, there is a high chance that the baby will become infected. Recurrent respiratory papillomatosis and skin lesions develop. If a pregnant woman is infected, delivery via cesarean section is recommended.

The household contact route involves using the same hygiene products with an infectious person.

The infectivity of HPV 16 carriers increases with the appearance of condylomas. Viral particles mature in parallel with the process of differentiation of young epidermal cells. Upon reaching the stratum corneum, their final assembly and release from the cells by budding is observed. As a result, viral particles are located directly on the surface of the skin. Such areas are dangerous.

There is a possibility that the exfoliated cells of the keratinized epithelium will remain infectious.

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Incubation period

Symptoms of HPV type 16 disease appear after a long incubation period. The papillomavirus is capable of remaining latent in the layers of the epidermis for a long time. The incubation period ranges from several months to 2-10 years.

In some cases, spontaneous elimination of the virus from the body occurs after several months (up to 2 years). The incubation period depends on the body’s resistance, that is, resistance to the influence of internal and external factors.

There are a number of conditions that contribute to the transition of the infection to the active phase:

• violation of the barrier function of the integument (abrasions and other injuries);
• primary or secondary immunodeficiency;
• hypo- or avitaminosis, especially vitamins such as C, A, folic acid;
• bad habits;
• hormonal imbalances (pregnancy, menopause, endocrine diseases);
• concomitant sexually transmitted infections.

The disease may transition to a recurrent course, in which there is a possibility of intraepithelial neoplasia and the development of cancer.

Diagnostic methods and interpretation of test results

To be diagnosed with HPV type 16, you need to seek help from a doctor (dermatologist, urologist or oncologist).

Diagnostic methods:

• visual;
• colposcopy;
• cytological examination;
• histology;
• immunocytochemical;
• DNA methods.

During the examination, the doctor examines the suspected areas of damage (internal and external genitalia, perineum, anus) for the presence of growths, and assesses the area of ​​the lesion. Then he prescribes the appropriate tests. The disadvantage of the method is the inability to judge the nature of the course of the disease.

Colposcopy is a method that allows you to assess the condition of the mucous membrane of the cervix and vagina. Allows you to identify different types of epithelium, the presence of foci of keratinization, vascular patterns and perform an accurate tissue biopsy. However, it is impossible to determine areas of benign HPV infection type 16 or cervical dysplasia.

Cytological analysis is widely used to diagnose metaplasia. HPV is characterized by the following cells: koilocytes and dyskeratocytes. Koilocytes are the result of the cytopathic effect of the virus on cells. They are characterized by the presence of a hyperchromic enlarged nucleus, a membrane with numerous folds, and a perinuclear zone of clearing.

The cytological method is usually used for screening examinations.

The difference between cytology and histology is that for cytology a scraping is sufficient, but for histology a biopsy is required to obtain a section of tissue.

Histology allows us to judge the structure of the tissue as a whole. A drug is prepared for this purpose. Then its cut is evaluated. It is included in the complex of diagnostic measures when dysplasia is detected and has greater accuracy.

According to the interpretation of the results, the diagnosis may be:

• mild dysplasia - less than a third of the epithelium is changed, signs of HPV are characteristic, including type 16 - dyskeratosis, koilocytosis;
• moderate – half affected;
• severe dysplasia - more than 2/3 of the epithelium is changed, is a precancerous disease.

Immunocytochemical analysis involves the detection of antibodies in the patient’s blood. It is rarely used; there is not always the production of antibodies to the pathogen (less than 70%).

DNA techniques involve finding the genetic material of the pathogen. The most widely used method is the polymerase chain reaction. PCR allows you to determine the slightest concentration of HPV 16 viral DNA. You can only judge the presence of the virus in the body and its strain. But it does not provide quantitative characteristics.

Decoding the result is not difficult: either positive or negative. Disadvantages include the complexity of sample preparation and the risk of obtaining a false result.

There are specific tests often used for screening.

Digene tests are used in conjunction with cytological examination. It is possible to judge the presence of 8 oncogenic strains of HPV, variety and concentration, which is important for the correct prognosis of the disease and monitoring the dynamics of treatment.

Decoding the results:

• no DNA detected – normal, the person is completely healthy and is not a carrier;
• less than 3Lg – the virus is in the body, but it is not enough for clinical signs;
• within 3-5Lg – concentration characteristic of a clinically significant infection;
• more than 5Lg – the risk of developing cancer is very significant.

The advantage of this diagnostic method is its short duration (1 day) and high specificity.

The described DNA diagnostic methods make it possible to judge the degree of carcinogenic risk of HPV 16.

How to live with HPV 16 to avoid cancer

If you have been diagnosed as a carrier of HPV 16, this does not mean that the disease will lead to oncology. It all depends on the body’s resistance. In some cases, spontaneous recovery occurs thanks to the immune system. Cancer develops only from a precancerous condition, which is severe dysplasia.

The primary task for cancer prevention is preventive examinations by specialists. Only constant monitoring of your health will allow timely treatment and avoid serious consequences.

Any form of dysplasia is reversible.

Monitor your immune system. It is necessary to lead a healthy lifestyle, eat rationally, and give up bad habits.

Most antiviral drugs (isoprinosine, for example) are aimed at enhancing natural immune processes.

As for your personal life, your partner should also be examined. It is necessary to avoid sexual intercourse with a carrier of HPV 16.

Can HPV 16 go away on its own?

Virus 16 can go away spontaneously. After infection, the body is able to cope with the infectious agent. This happens in 30% of cases and can take up to one year. If this does not happen, then there are two possible ways:

• manifestation of clinical symptoms;
• transition to an integrated form (which is more typical for HPV 16).

It turns out that every 3 is able to recover on their own, but you should not neglect the help of doctors. You definitely need to see a specialist and go through the entire course of examination to protect yourself.

It is more difficult for those who are infected with several genotypes at once. Thus, HPV 6 or 11, which have a low oncogenic risk, can be combined with representatives of a high oncogenic risk (strains 16, 18).

Source: https://VashaDerma.ru/hpv/16-tip

How dangerous are papillomas and what is the most dangerous virus?

The causative agent of the appearance of papillomas on the body is the human papillomavirus. In addition to the fact that you need to know how this disease is treated, it is important to know how dangerous papillomas are and how the virus becomes infected. Information on how to prevent infection is also important.  

Why is human papillomavirus dangerous?

How dangerous is the human papilloma virus, what is the danger of papillomas for the body of men and women? Papilloma is dangerous for both men and women. Such formations on the body can have dangerous consequences.

First of all, people with growths are at risk of developing cancer processes. There are certain strains of HPV in a girl or man that can become malignant.

In this case, a person may die from the threat of developing an oncogenic process.

The danger of the virus is that it is not completely cured and is not eliminated from the body . Its activity can only be suppressed for a certain time.

But in the presence of favorable conditions, in particular, when the natural resistant functions of the body are weakened, this virus can become more active, causing the appearance and growth of various types of neoplasms on the surface of the human skin.

Types of virus

Are papillomas scary, what stamps are harmful to the body? The human papillomavirus itself is very small in size. Due to this, it can easily be introduced into the human body during contact of a healthy person with a carrier of the virus. It can remain in the body in a latent form for a long time.

When the immune defense of cells weakens, the virus becomes active. In medicine today, a large number of types of viruses are known that will cause the growth of formations on the body. There are more than a hundred of them. Experts have assigned each strain of the virus a specific number.

Many species can provoke the appearance of absolutely identical formations on the epidermis or epithelium. 

While conducting various studies, experts have identified a direct connection between certain types of the virus and the development of cancer. It is according to the degree of cancer danger that the types of virus are classified into the following categories:

1. Safe.
2. Those that have a minimum level of danger.
3. Medium risk strains.
4. Highly oncogenic strains.

The disease manifests itself equally in both sexes.

In medicine today there are a large number of types of viruses that will cause the growth of formations on the body

Non-hazardous and low hazard

All strains that fall into the non-hazardous category do not have a tendency to transform cells into malignant ones. This is human papillomavirus type 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 10, 12, 14, 15, 17, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 26, 27, 28, 29, 57. Such markers provoke the appearance of growths only on the surface of the skin, their edges are unclear, the texture is lumpy.

Types 26, 27, 29 and 57 cause grayish, bumpy warts on the skin of the upper extremities. The growths caused by markers 1, 2, 4 are located on the surface of the feet, palms and fingers. Their appearance resembles old calluses.

Markers numbered 3, 10, 28 cause the growth of yellowish papillomas. Type number 7 provokes the growth of growths on the elbows and forearms. Other markers in this category cause the growth of condylomas on a thin stalk; their color may vary.

Markers classified as low hazard are: 6, 11, 42, 43, 44, 54, 55, 70, 72 and 81. The most common types are 6 and 11.

These markers cause the growth of condylomas on the surface of the genital mucosa, called condylomas.

Despite the low level of danger, radical removal of the formations is recommended, since they are often traumatized and secondary bacterial infections occur. Condylomas can grow.

With a medium threat level

The moderately dangerous category includes strains numbered 31, 33, 35, 52, 58. The most dangerous is type 31. After its introduction, small growths appear on the body within a short period of time; they can quickly transform into atypical cells.

The most dangerous HPVs

The most dangerous HPV numbers are: 16, 18, 39, 45, 46, 51, 53, 56, 58, 59, 66, 68, 73 and 82. If the most dangerous type of papilloma virus is present in the body, the risk of developing cancer increases in Five times.

How dangerous is papillomavirus for women?

How dangerous is papillomavirus for women? What is papilloma and how is it dangerous?

When HPV is introduced or activated in the human body, growths of various types appear on the skin or on the surface of the mucous membrane in women or men.

Dangerous types of HPV for women provoke the development of cervical cancer

Such formations, which are caused by human papillomavirus infection, may seem completely harmless. But they cause discomfort to a person because they often come into contact with clothing.

Also, a formation caused by HPV type 83 or caused by type 82 can be injured when walking, wearing uncomfortable or synthetic products, during hygiene procedures or during intimacy.

Against the background of constant trauma, a secondary bacterial infection may occur, and this is already fraught with processes of inflammation and suppuration. 

Dangerous types of HPV for women provoke the development of cervical cancer. The most dangerous types of HPV for women are fraught with the following consequences:

1. The development of various kinds of problems in the sexual sphere if papillomas are located on the surface of the genital mucosa. Bleeding appears after each sexual intercourse, the woman constantly feels severe discomfort.
2. The virus is transmitted from mother to newborn as it passes through the birth canal, as well as during breastfeeding.
3. In the presence of large neoplasms, there is an obstacle to normal delivery.
4. The tissues of the growths can transform into atypical cells and become malignant.

Sometimes neoplasms lead to the development of tumor-like processes on the external genitalia and on the cervix. Therefore, it is very important to consult a specialist and not treat yourself. Only a correctly prescribed removal method will be effective and minimize the risk of relapse.

Routes of infection and risk groups

After HPV cells are introduced into the body, they can remain dormant for a long time. Under the influence of certain predisposing factors, they are activated. These factors include:

You can become infected with HPV through intimate contact

• deterioration of the immune system under the influence of diseases or after a change in climatic conditions;
• the presence of age-related and hormonal changes;
• period of bearing a child;
• frequent stress;
• living in unfavorable environmental conditions;
• use of antibacterial agents;
• smoking and drinking alcohol abuse.

Infection occurs through intimate contact, when visiting public places, through direct contact with an infected person, and in the absence of proper personal hygiene.

Symptoms of dangerous types of virus

How to determine the type of virus? Diagnosis is performed only by a doctor after passing certain tests. The main symptoms of dangerous types of virus include:

• discomfort during intimacy;
• deterioration of health;
• pain in the area of ​​the growth during movement;
• discharge with an unpleasant odor;
• bleeding and suppuration processes if a secondary infection occurs.

Treatment and removal methods

How the removal will be carried out is decided by a specialist after a preliminary examination. In addition to radical removal, the following treatment regimen using medications is required:

Interferon directly affects viral cells

1. Immunostimulants (anaferon). The active components of the drugs stimulate the immune system, thereby stopping the further spread of the virus.
2. Antiviral drugs (interferon). These drugs directly affect the virus cells.
3. Multivitamin preparations, with the help of which the body will more actively resist the development of the virus, will help to overcome it faster.

External treatment is carried out using medications (super cleanliness, antipapillomas, papillomas) or radical removal is used using cosmetic or surgical procedures.

Radical removal of tumors on the epidermis or epithelium is carried out using the following cosmetic or surgical procedures:

1. Laser surgery. Removal using a laser beam is carried out using a specific device that directs the beam to the tissue of the formation. Under the influence of this ray, papilloma, condyloma or wart cells are destroyed.
2. Cryodestruction. To carry out this procedure, very low temperature liquid nitrogen is used. The tissues of the formation freeze and die.
3. Radio wave method. Suitable for removing growths even on sensitive areas of the body.
4. Surgical removal. It is often used to get rid of large growths or for precancerous conditions.

Which method of dealing with the problem to choose is up to the doctor to decide after he receives the results of diagnostic measures, taking into account the individual characteristics of the body, the general condition of the patient, the size and number of papillomas.

Video

Why are papillomas dangerous?

Source: https://ozppp.com/vpch/papillomy/kakuyu-opasnost-predstavlyayut.html

Why is high-risk human papillomavirus dangerous in women?

How many people will find out that the high-risk human papillomavirus has found a place in their body! Today on the women’s website “Beautiful and Successful” we will try to figure out what to do if you are diagnosed with papillomavirus and when it is dangerous.

What is HPV?

HPV is a virus. Like any other virus, it can live in the body and cause harm to health. The peculiarity of the papillomavirus is its “desire” to destroy healthy cells of the skin and mucous membranes.

There are many strains of this human infection. Some of them are dangerous, others are harmless. Those that are dangerous are classified as oncogenic (carcinogenic).

How does the virus work?

• The papillomavirus, entering the human body, begins to change the growth of cells in the skin tissue and mucous membranes, causing the appearance of tumors on the skin. Those caused by a non-dangerous virus cause the appearance of harmless neoplasms - warts, for example.
• Oncogenic and carcinogenic viruses can, under favorable conditions, begin to invade cells and cause the appearance of neoplasms and transformations that are dangerous to health - genital warts and even malignant cancerous tumors.

How do people get infected with the virus?

Contact with someone who has the human papillomavirus is the main cause of infection. HPV is transmitted through sex. At least 60% of people pick it up this way.

What is special about this virus? If your sexual partner has this virus (he is its carrier), then already during the first sexual intercourse it will enter your body. You immediately become a carrier of the papillomavirus. It has been proven that even a condom does not always protect against this virus. HPV lives in the body of most people who are sexually active.

Very often, the virus does not cause any complications, does not manifest itself in any way, less often the virus begins to invade cells, and neoplasms appear on the skin (mucous membranes) in the form of condylomas, warts and malignant tumors in the anus and genitals.

What is the danger of papillomavirus for women?

It should be taken into account that HPV penetrates into a woman’s body more often than into a man’s body, and the most vulnerable places in women are the genitals. During sexual intercourse, microcracks and microtraumas appear on the female genital organs. They are neither noticeable nor perceptible. But their appearance on mucous membranes creates favorable conditions for the penetration and reproduction of papillomavirus.

If a woman has HPV, she is at risk of cancer.

Note! The presence of human papillomavirus in a woman in no way means that she has cancer.

The presence of this virus means that you are at risk and must take control of the “life” of the virus in your body - that is, systematically get tested and find out whether the virus has begun to multiply and infect healthy cells.

Thus, the main route of infection with high-oncogenic type HPV is through sexual activity. Moreover, as recent studies prove, a condom does not completely protect against this infection.

Who else is at risk?

• Those women who do not have a permanent partner.
• Women of low social status who rarely visit a gynecologist and are not examined.
• Pregnant women, in whom the virus may become more active due to hormonal changes.

How does the virus “attack”?

As we have already said, in women this virus can “dormant” in the body and not cause any external changes on the skin. He seems to be waiting for the right moment. As soon as a woman’s immunity decreases, her hormonal levels change (during pregnancy and menopause), the virus begins its attack.

1. At first it penetrates the skin, but no change occurs. The DNA of the human papillomavirus of high oncogenic risk is free floating.
2. Then the papillomavirus cells begin to integrate into healthy epithelial cells.
3. After a certain time, new growths appear on the mucous membrane or skin. Let us recall that if the strain of human papillomavirus is of high carcinogenic risk, then this leads to cervical cancer.

A positive point should be noted right away. The introduction of the virus into healthy mucosal cells occurs over a long period of time. for a virus to cause uterine cancer !

Why does sympaty.net consider this a positive thing?

Because there is a real opportunity to detect papillomavirus in women at an early stage of its development and begin complex treatment in time, preventing the infection from continuing its path.

If you do not undergo examination, the DNA of the papillomavirus will invade healthy cells and infect them, causing dangerous cervical diseases of varying severity. It has been proven that in 99% of cancer cases the causative agent of cancer is this particular type of virus, 16 or 18 strains (high cancer risk).

Thus, the main symptoms of HPV in women are the appearance of condylomas, growths in the genital area. As soon as you notice any growths or lumps, you should immediately get tested for HPV. Only tests will help determine what caused the appearance of tumors and whether the pathogens are cancer-hazardous.

How is HPV detected?

Symptoms of high-risk papillomavirus depend on its type. If the infection does not manifest itself externally (there are no noticeable tumors on the genitals), then the woman can live and not even realize that she is sick. She can find out that a woman has problems from tests.

Women undergo the following tests for human papillomavirus:

• The first analysis is PCR. They take a blood test for papillomavirus or take a vaginal smear from women.
• HPV test - Digene HPV test. A more accurate diagnostic method is when a scraping is taken from the cervix. This test not only determines the presence of the virus in the body, but also allows you to determine at what stage of development it is currently at.

These two diagnostic methods make it possible to find out whether a woman has the human papillomavirus. If the result is positive, the doctor may suggest further research - prescribe a colposcopy or biopsy.

HPV treatment

It is impossible to completely get rid of HPV if it is already detected in your body. But modern medicine can stop its development and prevent the DNA of the human papillomavirus of high oncogenic risk from penetrating healthy cells.

• First of all, all papillomas, if any, are mechanically removed from the genitals.
• In parallel, restorative therapy with antiviral drugs is prescribed.

A vaccine has now been developed for HPV. But it will not be effective if you have already started sexual activity. It needs to be administered to girls before they become sexually active, before they catch the virus from a sexual partner. This is not cheap - one vaccination costs about $120, and you need to do 3 vaccinations.

So what should we understand?

• HPV is present in the body of almost every adult.
• The main transmission is sexual.
• Not all HPVs are dangerous to health.
• To clarify the type of infection, tests for the human papillomavirus are necessary (women are examined by a gynecologist). At a minimum, they donate blood for HPV or a vaginal smear.
• People with any strain of the virus do not have cancer; they are at risk and may develop cancer if they do not get tested and monitor their health.
• It is impossible to completely remove the virus from the body, but you can live a long and happy life with it if you carry out maintenance therapy on time.

—
Author - Yulia Spiridonova, website www.sympaty.net - Beautiful and Successful

Copying this article is prohibited!

Source: https://www.sympaty.net/20160229/virus-papillomy-cheloveka-vysokogo-riska-u-zhenshhin/

Danger of HPV

The papillomavirus not only disrupts the structure of the skin, but also carries certain risks that negatively affect health. There are different types of pathogens, each of which manifests itself in its own way. The consequences of their activation in the body must be eliminated individually.

The appearance of HPV can be life-threatening, so it is important to identify the virus in a timely manner

To identify a specific source of infection, special diagnostic methods are used, and they also make it possible to determine at what stage the disease is. The more the pathology progresses, the more difficult it is to stop it. Therefore, it is recommended to periodically take tests for the human papillomavirus, to know why the disease is dangerous.

What is HPV

HPV is a small pathogenic particle that, upon penetration into the body, begins to invade healthy cells. The integrity of tissues is damaged and growths form. In some cases, over time they transform into malignant structures.

You can become infected with the disease through sexual contact (the most common cause) or at home. Papillomatosis can be transmitted in medical or beauty salons with poor sterilization of instruments, in a sauna, swimming pool and other public places.

Having entered the body, the infection remains in a latent state for some time. Its activity can be provoked by a weakened immune system when the body’s defenses are suppressed.

However, visual observations are not enough to accurately identify the disease. Most often, a PCR analysis is performed to determine the type of infectious lesion.

Dangerous types of HPV

Not all neoplasms cause the same harm to health; each type of pathogen has a specific clinical picture. Therefore, if papillomavirus is diagnosed, how dangerous it is depends on the specific pathogen.

Some types of the virus are harmless, but some can ultimately be fatal.

A few of the most malignant strains:

1. 16 – almost fifty percent of those infected begin to develop cancer after some time. It provokes uterine dysplasia, deforming its tissues. Externally it manifests itself in the form of flat warts and condylomas.
2. 18 – carries a high probability of developing oncology. Penetrates the DNA of healthy cells and rearranges their structure, quickly spreads and invades new areas.
3. 31, 33 – penetrate into the scaly part of the epidermis, leading to Bowen’s disease. They are characterized by flat growths, the color palette of which ranges from light shades to dark brown. In women, it can cause neoplasia in the genitals.
4. 54, 55 – have a reduced oncogenic risk, but when injured they provoke heavy and prolonged bleeding. They are based on a thin stalk and are similar in shape to mushrooms.
5. 39, 59 – activation of these types leads to the external manifestation of pathology in the form of non-condylamatous or condylamatous growths. In females, the formations affect the labia and groin area. Men suffer from papillomatosis in the scrotum area, but also in the shaft of the penis, glans and urethra.

For each type of virus, special therapy is selected depending on the individual characteristics of the pathogen. Complex treatment is considered the most effective. To avoid reactivation of the pathogen, immunomodulatory drugs are prescribed.

The treatment and medications needed depend on the type of virus

What is the danger of the papilloma virus

To determine why HPV is dangerous for men and women, it is necessary to analyze the action of the pathogen in each specific case.

First of all, for both sexes there is a risk of mechanical injury to the growths. Depending on the location of the formations, tight clothing, tight shoes, using a washcloth in the shower, having sex and other factors can damage their structure. In addition, the pathogen is transmitted through household and sexual contact, therefore, there is a high probability of infecting a partner.

Source: http://bolezni.com/stati-o-boleznyah/papilloma/opasnost-vpch.html

Human papillomavirus is dangerous for women: what, how, why?

Human papillomavirus is a dangerous disease that is transmitted to a person from another person and causes pathological changes in tissues.

The causative agent is a DNA virus that enters the human body through microwounds and cracks in the mucous membranes and can integrate into blood cells, causing them to divide and multiply uncontrollably, as a result of which a person develops papillomas and condylomas. So, why is papillomavirus dangerous for women?

The main route of transmission of the virus is physical contact with an infected person, including through sexual relations. Moreover, even protected sexual intercourse is not a guarantee of protection against infection; it can only reduce the risk. This is due to the dangerous virus being too small.

Thus, many are wondering how to protect themselves from this infection?

Content

The danger of the virus for women

Today, doctors know more than 150 types of papillomavirus. All known types of HPV are usually divided into three types:

• non-cancerous;
• capable of causing cancer with a low level of probability;
• with a high probability of causing the appearance of malignant tumors.

As it becomes clear, the third type of virus is especially dangerous, since it can cause the development of genital cancer, in particular, cervical cancer in women. This type includes the four most oncogenic known ones: 16, 18.6, 11. The danger also lies in the fact that they progress quickly.

The human papillomavirus causes warts, papillomas, and genital warts on the genitals and respiratory tract. They can look different: like flat calluses, spiky growths, bushy growths, or raised spots.

If the growths are located in places where they are easily injured, they cause physical discomfort, open as ulcers and even bleed. All this can contribute to the development of progressive skin diseases.

But a particularly dangerous type of virus is one that causes cancer of the female genital organs: cervix, vagina, vulva, anus.

Risk group and likelihood of complications

According to medical research, almost 80-90% of the population are currently carriers of the virus. Therefore, there is a very high possibility of becoming infected. But why is human papillomavirus dangerous in women? Representatives of the fair sex are especially at risk if they:

• sexual activity began very early;
• sexual partners often change, and unprotected contacts occur periodically;
• advanced inflammatory processes in the genital organs, STIs;
• weak immune system;
• pregnancy period, abortion;
• neglect of personal hygiene;
• excessive drinking and smoking.

Infants are also at risk, since the mother can infect the child during childbirth.

However, it is worth understanding that simply the presence of the papilloma virus in a woman’s body does not mean the onset of cancer development, and also that if an infection is detected, the disease will soon begin to develop.

According to doctors, tumor development usually begins 15-20 years after infection, and then under favorable conditions for the development of HPV. Only one in three carriers can actually become ill, and for a tumor to develop, the natural protective barrier against cancer must be lowered.

The decrease in natural protection against a dangerous disease is influenced by:

• too many free radicals, that is, molecules that damage cell DNA;
• frequent smoking;
• decreased immunity;
• rare exposure to fresh air and sun;
• metabolic diseases such as diabetes, hormonal imbalances;
• hard work;
• the presence of toxins and waste in the body, consumption of harmful foods.

In the absence of these factors, the risk of developing malignancy can be reduced.

We recommend reading:

1. HPV type 52 in women
2. Epigen from papillomas
3. Papillomas in the vagina

The connection between papillomavirus and cancer

The highly oncogenic type of HPV promotes the development of precancerous formations in cells, and as a result, the occurrence of a most dangerous disease of the genital organs, such as the cervix, vagina, vulva, penis. According to doctors, almost all patients with cancer were diagnosed with HPV. Types 16 and 18 are especially dangerous.

Since there are a large number of people in the risk zone, in order to avoid unpleasant consequences you need to undergo periodic examinations: cytology, colposcopy, PCR for HPV, its types. By observing the behavior of the virus, you will be able to control it, notice that something is wrong in time, and begin timely treatment.

Cervical cancer develops more often than others. When a person is infected, the virus does not immediately “go on the offensive.” Papillomavirus does not quickly lead to the development of the disease. Several months or even years may pass between infection and the degeneration of the virus into a malignant tumor.

What to do if you are diagnosed with HPV?

First of all, you should see a doctor; at the very beginning, genital warts may not be very noticeable. All modern methods are used to determine the presence of a virus:

• colposcopy;
• cytology of smears from the walls of the vagina and cervix;
• PCR test, it will allow you to find out about the presence or determine the type.

It is impossible to completely get rid of the infection, but you can help the body suppress it and prevent the development of dangerous diseases.

It is impossible to cure papillomavirus by removing warts or condylomas.

Before proceeding with removal, antiviral therapy is necessary. The attending physician prescribes antiviral drugs. Their job is to stimulate the body to produce interferons, which naturally destroy infection in the body.

Additionally, it should be clarified that it is necessary to strengthen the body’s natural defense against cancer, and trace elements will help with this: zinc, selenium, magnesium and iron.

If you have concomitant diseases, STIs, cervical erosion, you need to start treating them. As you know, one of the factors contributing to the development of cancer is weakened immunity, so the attending physician prescribes immunostimulating drugs.

And finally, you need to remove the growths that have appeared. There are many methods for this:

• radio wave removal;
• cryotherapy;
• ultrasound excision;
• electrocoagulation.

After a course of treatment, mandatory control and monitoring is necessary to avoid relapses.

Particular attention should be paid to women who are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. In addition to the sexual route of infection with papillomavirus, there is infection during childbirth, when the child passes through the birth canal. When he catches a papilloma infection, he develops pointed papillomas on the larynx and in the mouth. Thus, a caesarean section is often performed in these cases.

At the same time, treatment is impossible, since during this period you cannot take antiviral drugs that stimulate immunostimulation. So, all treatment is postponed until after the birth of the child.

Vaccination against papillomavirus

Recently, a lot of information has appeared that you can get vaccinated against papillomavirus. Only girls and women who have not had sexual relations and have not yet been infected can get the vaccine, and for them it will be effective. Thus, infection with oncogenic types is reduced to zero.

But for those who have already had sexual relations, the effect of the vaccine does not matter. For such people, the most effective method is constant monitoring and examinations by a doctor.

Symptoms of papillomavirus

The incubation period for this disease is quite long, so the first symptoms may appear even after several years, and even then, with a weakened immune system.

The main syndrome is the appearance of pinkish growths and genital warts on the mucous membranes of the genital organs. If such symptoms occur, you should immediately consult a doctor.

If the virus is detected in one partner, the other must undergo all tests. Often, when the infection is present in only one of the couple, this indicates that he has a strong immune system and is not susceptible to bacteria.

The human papillomavirus is dangerous and insidious. People transmit the disease to each other, often without even knowing it. Due to the large number of infected people, it is almost impossible to protect yourself from infection, and barrier contraceptives are not absolute protection. The virus is too small, so it easily penetrates the female body through a condom.

What is important to know?

The main way to protect yourself is to follow simple rules: do not have a large number of sexual partners, lead a healthy lifestyle, maintain personal hygiene, and strengthen your immune system. At the first signs and symptoms, and also if you are sure of the likelihood of infection, you should immediately consult a doctor.

The article has been verified by the editors

Source: https://CoriumMed.ru/papillomy/vpch/chem-opasen-u-zhenshhin.html

How dangerous is the human papillomavirus and how to get rid of it

In fact, there is not just one virus - there are many of them, up to 200 species. Most human papillomaviruses (HPV) are harmless. However, about 40 of them happily attack people's genitals, and at least 14, according to WHO, are oncogenic, that is, they can cause cancer.

Women are most often affected. It is HPV that in 70% of cases causes cervical cancer, the second most common type of malignant tumor among women in developed countries. But men are also at risk: the human papillomavirus can cause cancer of the anus, penis and oropharynx.

You cannot immediately determine which type of HPV - oncogenic or not - you got. But the fact that you have it is almost certain. According to the American Sexual Health Association, approximately 80% of people who are sexually active are infected.

It is noteworthy that most HPV victims do not even realize that they are infected. For objective reasons, however.

What are the symptoms of human papillomavirus

HPV is an insidious thing. Often it does not appear at all. Sometimes symptoms appear many years after infection. So it is difficult to determine exactly when the infection entered the body.

The most obvious (but not obligatory) symptom is the appearance of growths on the skin of any part of the body. Papillomas, condylomas, warts - these are all HPV.

Fortunately, most often they go away on their own within a year or two and do not pose a health risk. But if the symptoms of HPV stubbornly do not disappear, and especially if papillomas and warts appear on the genitals or in the mouth and throat area, it is imperative to consult a physician, gynecologist or urologist.

With a prolonged chronic form, HPV can lead to cell changes that eventually turn into malignant ones. On average, it takes 10–20 years from infection to cancer development.

How to treat human papillomavirus

Unfortunately, there is no cure for the virus itself. Therapy comes down to eliminating symptoms and combating the possible consequences of HPV - precancerous and cancerous conditions.

Warts and papillomas are usually physically removed using different methods. A doctor - a dermatologist, gynecologist, urologist or ENT specialist (if we are talking about growths in the oropharynx area) will help you choose the most effective and safest one.

Precancerous and cancerous conditions can also be cured - the more successfully the earlier the disease is detected.

As a rule, it is enough to undergo the procedure once every five years. But if the doctor thinks that in your case it is necessary more often, listen to his opinion.

Screenings are not recommended for men. Just remember to consult a doctor if you suddenly notice something unusual - soreness, growth, swelling - in the area of ​​the genitals, anus or oropharynx. Regular examination by a urologist (for men over 40 years old - preferably at least once a year) will reduce the risk of missing something really serious.

How to avoid becoming infected with the human papillomavirus

HPV is a disease that is easier to prevent than to treat. The most reliable way to do this is to get vaccinated. But there is a nuance. Vaccination is most effective only if the body has never encountered the virus before. Therefore, WHO recommends that children be vaccinated between the ages of 9 and 14 years, before they become sexually active. Ideally 11–12 years old.

If you did not have time to get vaccinated on time, you can get vaccinated up to 21 years of age (for boys) and up to 26 years of age (for girls).

To reduce your risk of getting HPV later in life:

• try to have sex only with one trusted partner;
• avoid intimacy with those people who have someone other than you;
• use condoms;
• be especially careful if you have a weakened immune system (for example, diagnosed with HIV);
• stop smoking - smoking can accelerate the development of cervical cancer and other cancers;
• strengthen your immune system.

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Source: https://Lifehacker.ru/virus-papillomy-cheloveka/