Human papillomavirus infection
Human papillomavirus infection (HPV) is a viral infection that is passed between people through skin-to-skin contact. There are more than 100 varieties of HPV, 40 of which are passed through sexual contact and can affect your genitals, mouth or throat.
Pronunciation
- Human papillomavirus infection: /ˈhjuːmən ˌpæpɪloʊˈvaɪrəs ɪnˈfɛkʃən/
Etymology
The term "Human papillomavirus" is derived from the Latin papilla (nipple) and -oma (tumor), referring to the wart-like growths some HPV types can cause. "Virus" is from the Latin virus referring to poison or a noxious substance.
Symptoms
Most HPV infections don't lead to cancer. But some types of genital HPV can cause cancer of the lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina (cervix). Other types of cancers, including cancers of the anus, penis, vagina, vulva and oropharynx (back of the throat, including the base of the tongue and tonsils) can also be caused by HPV.
Prevention
Vaccines can help protect against the strains of genital HPV most likely to cause genital warts or cervical cancer. The HPV vaccine is recommended for preteen boys and girls at age 11 or 12 so they are protected before ever being exposed to the virus.
Treatment
There's no cure for the virus and warts may go away on their own. Treatment focuses on removing the warts. A vaccine that prevents the HPV strains most likely to cause genital warts and cervical cancer is recommended for boys and girls.
See also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Human papillomavirus infection
- Wikipedia's article - Human papillomavirus infection
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