Human Papillomavirus: Symptoms and Treatment

The human papillomavirus (HPV) is the most common sexually transmitted disease today and is actually comprised of more than 150 viruses, 30 of which may evolve into various types of cancer. Depending on the type of HPV virus you’re exposed to, you may develop warts on certain parts of your body or develop cancer. When the disease results in cancer, it usually results in anal or cervical cancer, but in rare cases, it may result in throat or lung cancer.

Unfortunately, many who have HPV don’t even realize it, and many never will. There is also no cure for HPV.

Human Papillomavirus Causes

HPV is a virus passed through vaginal or anal intercourse or other skin-to-skin contact involving the genitals. In most cases, HPV infections only cause warts on certain areas of the body, including the genitals, feet, and hands. However, certain strains may increase your chances of developing cancer. Risk factors associated with HPV include the following:

• Having Multiple Intimate Partners
• Having Intercourse with Someone Else Who’s Had Multiple Sexual Partners
• Having a Weak Immune System
• Having Damaged Skin
• Having Contact with Warts on the Body of Someone Infected by HPV

Human Papillomavirus Symptoms

In some cases, HPV doesn’t cause symptoms, and if it does, they could take years or even decades to make an appearance. However, in many cases, warts are a common symptom and vary in appearance depending on where they’re located. For example, common skin warts are usually found on the hands, scalp, face, and other areas of the skin. They’re usually painless, round growths and beige, pink, brown, or whitish in color. Plantar warts, on the other hand, are thick, painful growths commonly found on the feet. Genital warts are painless growths that appear on and around the genitalia.

In addition to warts, cancer is also a symptom of HPV, albeit a rare one. Cervical, oral, and anal cancer are all linked with HPV, and the symptoms vary depending on which type of cancer you have. With cervical cancer, the symptoms may include pelvic pain, abnormal vaginal bleeding, and spotting after intercourse. With oral cancer, the symptoms include sores in the mouth or on the tongue. With anal cancer, the symptoms may include itching, bleeding, or pain in and near the anus.

Human Papillomavirus Diagnosis

If you think you may have HPV, schedule an appointment with your doctor. Usually, all that’s needed is a visual inspection, although in some cases, your doctor may order additional tests to confirm an HPV diagnosis.

Human Papillomavirus Treatment

If you have HPV, the treatment options will vary depending on what strain of HPV you have. If you have regular skin warts, over-the-counter creams, ointments, and plasters are commonly prescribed. If you have genital warts or warts on your face, your doctor may prescribe stronger medications, including imiquimod (Aldara) and podofilox (Condylox). In more severe cases, your doctor may remove your warts surgically or with one of the following treatments:

• Cryotherapy
• Applying Acids or Podophyllum to the Wart(s)
• Laser Therapy
• Interferon Injections

Human Papillomavirus Vaccinations

Fortunately, there are vaccinations available to help decrease your chances of developing cancers associated with HPV. In fact, there are three vaccines, which include Cervarix, Gardasil, and Gardasil 9. The HPV vaccine is usually administered in two doses over a 6- to 12-month time span. Currently, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that children between the ages of 11 and 12 receive the vaccine. 

Human Papillomavirus Prognosis

Depending on what type of HPV virus you have, your prognosis may vary. If you have warts, they may completely disappear within 6 to 12 months. If they don’t, there are plenty of in-office treatment options available. Cancer is another story, and your prognosis would depend on what type of cancer you have and what stage it’s in.