Human papillomavirus

Human papillomavirus infection poses a danger to humans, and especially to the fair sex. There are studies showing that the human papillomavirus in women (HPV) often leads to dangerous consequences, including cervical cancer.

The tricky thing about the virus is that it long time does not make itself felt and is often discovered by chance when gynecological examination. Timely detection of the virus and the changes it causes in the body makes it possible to prescribe a course of treatment and prevent the development of malignant processes.

An infection caused by the papilloma virus is manifested by the appearance of warts (condylomas) on the skin.

What is HPV

Papilloma is benign tumor, the main element of which is the connective papilla of tissue, consisting of small vessels and covered with epithelium. Papillomas develop from squamous epithelium and can occur in the oral cavity, on the genital or nasal mucosa.

In women, the papilloma virus occurs much more often than in the male population. In 80% of cases, a virus on the genitals leads to the development of cervical cancer - penetrating into the female body, the DNA virus leads to random cell division, which is why various types of skin begin to appear on the skin. external manifestations infections (papillomas, condylomas, etc.).

Important! According to statistics, more than 70% of all women in reproductive age, are carriers of HPV. But the virus is not always activated - the appearance of neoplasms on the mucous membrane is noted with a decrease in energy levels, stress, disturbances hormonal levels.

There are over a hundred different types of HPV, some of which provoke the appearance of condylomas, warts and other neoplasms on the genital mucosa, while others cause cancer.

HPV types (strains) are divided according to the types of cancer risk:

1,3,5,2 – types that do not cause cancer;
11,6,42,44,43 – types with low oncogenic risk;
31,16,18,33,45,68,52,51,59,39 types with a high risk of oncogenicity.

HPV types are determined using certain laboratory tests, but first of all, a woman notices the appearance of new growths on her body, which indicate infection with the virus.

Routes of transmission of HPV

HPV infection can occur through various reasons, but, according to observations, there are certain factors that contribute to the penetration and development of the virus in the body:

Girls who began early sexual activity. Primary infection with HPV usually occurs before the age of 25. At the same time, it is not necessary for the virus to enter the vagina during full sexual intercourse; the infection can enter girls during petting.
Contact with personal belongings of a patient or a carrier of the virus, damaged mucous membranes (towel, personal belongings).
Women who are promiscuous and change sexual partners frequently.
Unprotected sexual intercourse with a partner who has HPV.
Women undergoing abortion. At frequent abortions the mucous membrane is disrupted and injured, which increases the likelihood of virus penetration.
Sharing a bathroom or toilet with an infected person. It is also possible to become infected in in public places– saunas, swimming pools, gyms, where present optimal conditions for the development of the virus (heat and moisture).
Women with chronic gynecological diseases (for example, uterine erosion).
Transmission of the virus through the placenta or birth canal from mother to child.
Women infected venereal diseases(ureaplasmosis,).
Medical or cosmetic procedures using non-sterile instruments.
Women who abuse oral contraceptives. These drugs provoke hormonal imbalances, which contributes to the development and activation of the virus.

Note! Most often, infection with the virus occurs through sexual contact. It does not matter how the sexual intercourse took place - traditional way, oral, anal. At the same time, even a condom is unable to protect against the virus, because the microorganism is negligibly small in size.

HPV enters the body through small lesions on the skin (cracks, scratches), and infection can occur both from the patient and from an ordinary carrier of the infection, who is often unaware of its existence. The virus can be transmitted both sexually and through household contact (through towels, manicure tools, hygiene items).

Symptoms and manifestations

The papilloma virus in women can manifest itself in different ways: when activated, the virus leads to the appearance of various neoplasms that appear on the skin and mucous membranes.

How does HPV manifest?

Warts and papillomas. In appearance, they are dense, round neoplasms or have a convex shape. The color of warts most often does not differ from the normal color of the skin and does not cause pain when pressed. Most often, warts can be found on the eyelids, neck, under the mammary glands, on the stomach, and palms. Such neoplasms are caused by HPV strains 2,4 or 1.
Genital warts (or genital warts). They occur most often in places injured during sexual intercourse, less often in the oral cavity. They are mainly localized on the cervix, in the vagina, in the cervical canal, around the anus. In appearance, the neoplasms look like growths, with uneven, torn edges (photo). The color of warts ranges from flesh-colored to dark brown, appearance– thread-like or in the form of small bumps. Single condylomas can merge over time, forming a growth resembling cauliflower. Genital warts usually do not manifest themselves in any way additional symptoms, sometimes there is a slight itching in the external genitalia, pain during sexual intercourse and urination. Condylomas are most often caused by viruses type 3,6 or 11. The appearance of such neoplasms in the cervical area greatly increases the risk of developing cancer.
Papular warts (flat warts). The most dangerous manifestation of HPV in women is caused by strains 16 and 18, as well as papillomas type 39 and papillomas type 31 in women. In appearance, they appear as dense pinkish plaques, predominantly located in the cervix area. Their appearance indicates that the virus has been in the woman’s body for quite a long time, which means it causes damage to the epithelial layer of the cervix.

The human papillomavirus in women begins to show symptoms most often already when the disease is advanced, and the immune system significantly weakened. In this condition, the virus begins to accumulate in one place and divide uncontrollably.

First, small formations, both single and multiple, can be noticed on the body. In some cases, their appearance may be accompanied by itching and burning.

A woman can detect genital warts when she washes her genitals. You should pay attention to the appearance of small bumps in the clitoris, anus or vulva.

Important! Condylomas on the walls of the vagina are detected exclusively during a gynecological examination.

In most cases, a woman can detect external manifestations of HPV on her own, but there are also histological changes in a woman’s body that can only be detected with a special examination and certain tests. In this case, the virus manifests itself in the following conditions:

Chronic cervicitis (inflammation of the cervical mucosa);
Cervical dysplasia ( precancerous condition, caused by viruses type 16 and 18 in women);
Cervical cancer (oncological malignant disease, often caused by HPV strains 16 and 18 in women).

With the active development of HPV, a woman may experience enlarged lymph nodes, fever, chills, deterioration general well-being, pain when the growths are damaged.

Note! Condylomas and warts can disappear on their own in 15% of cases. In other cases, there is a rapid proliferation of condylomas, which requires immediate treatment.

Human papillomavirus type 18 and type 16 in women are the most dangerous strains; it is with the development of these types that cervical cancer most often forms in women. The formation of cancer cells under the influence of type 16 papilloma is recorded in 70% of cases, although the detection of this strain in a woman does not guarantee that cancer will definitely occur.

HPV in women is expressed not only by condylomas on the body, but also causes the development of condylomas, which, if not treated in a timely manner, can lead to cancer. The danger lies in the difficulty of detecting HPV, since in women this virus lives completely asymptomatically in the body and the opportunity to detect it arises only at an appointment with a gynecologist

Why is HPV dangerous for women?

The appearance of HPV cannot be ignored, because... this virus can not only significantly ruin life with its unpleasant manifestations, but also lead to irreversible consequences. All neoplasms that appear on the body as a result of infection by the virus not only disfigure the woman’s body and cause some discomfort, but also cause dangerous conditions:

Infections with various infections;
Development of cancer;
Infection of a child with a virus during childbirth.

Despite the fact that HPV is present in two thirds of women, only 25% of all representatives of the fairer sex encounter its consequences: in 5% of cases, HPV manifests itself 3-4 years after infection and leads to uterine dysplasia, in 20% of cases the virus develops into within five years after infection and leads to cervical cancer.

Important! The duration of the period during which HPV does not manifest itself in any way directly depends on the state of the woman’s immune system. In most cases, when strong, 90% of viruses self-destruct.

HPV poses a particular danger to pregnant women and unborn babies. Therefore, expectant mothers must be tested for the human papillomavirus. If, during an examination at the pregnancy planning stage, the presence of a virus is detected, the woman will be asked to delay pregnancy until the infection is cured.

If the virus is detected in a woman already during pregnancy, then treatment is postponed until the 28th week of pregnancy, when all the baby’s organs are already formed. A patient with HPV is not recommended to give birth on her own, because there is a risk of infection of the fetus during its passage through the birth canal.

How to treat HPV in women

If you suspect the presence of HPV, a woman should immediately contact a specialist: an infectious disease specialist, a dermatologist, a venereologist. Doctors will conduct diagnostic studies and select the appropriate treatment.

Before treating human papillomavirus in women, the doctor carries out certain diagnostic measures, allowing you to establish the type of virus, the size of neoplasms and the localization of papillomas and condylomas.

Diagnostics include:

Visual inspection. The cervix is examined using a speculum to identify warts and condylomas.
Colposcopy. Using a device that magnifies the image (colposcope), the doctor tests the site of the lesion using certain methods: tests with Lugol's solution, test with acetic acid. Testing is absolutely painless and very informative.
Cytological smear. Scrapings from the cervix are examined, which are taken from the cervical mucosa and cervical canal. The method allows you to detect signs of cancer in the cervix at the very initial stage.
. For examination, a piece of tissue is taken from the cervix.
Polymerase chain reaction. The type of HPV is determined by scraping from the cervical canal to determine the DNA of the virus.

Treatment of human papillomavirus is selected individually, and its scheme boils down to eliminating the manifestations of HPV, because It is impossible to completely destroy the virus.

Local treatment

Operative measures aimed at removing condylomas and warts different ways, the choice of which depends on the size of the tumors and their location.

Treatment methods:

Cryodestruction - using liquid nitrogen, the changed areas of the epithelium are frozen.
Radio wave coagulation - excision of condylomas and warts using a special radio wave scalpel.
Diathermocoagulation – excision of a tumor with an electric discharge and an electric scalpel.
Laser radiation – removal of papillomas and warts using a laser. The only procedure suitable for pregnant women.
Surgical removal is indicated in the case of large affected areas or if malignancy is suspected. Applicable under local anesthesia.

The main disadvantage of local treatment of the virus is the leaving of scars and the high likelihood of relapses. Therefore, local treatment must be carried out in combination with drug therapy, which is aimed at preventing the reappearance of growths.

Immunomodulatory drug therapy

Drug treatment is aimed at preventing malignant neoplasms by strengthening and restoring the human immune system.

The following drugs help cure the human papillomavirus:

Allokin-alpha. Intravenous is prescribed to women who have strains with a high risk of cancer.
Groprinosin, Epigen intimate, Panavir. Pills to prevent the development of HPV. Quickly eliminate the external manifestations of the virus.
Viferon. Local remedy used in the composition complex therapy HPV. Quickly stops the development of the virus and eliminates skin tumors.
Genferon. The drug based on taurine, interferon and benzocaine has a powerful antiviral effect and helps to quickly eliminate the manifestations of HPV and increase immunity.

Other immunomodulatory drugs: Levamisole, Thymosin, Izinoplex, Likopid, Immunomax allow you to consolidate the results obtained during treatment and significantly increase immunity. Local treatments help reduce the size of papillomas and condylomas medicinal preparations(Cycloferon, Interferon ointment), which also increase local immunity. Extensive areas of damage are treated with local necrotic ointments such as Podophyllin or Vartek.

Traditional methods

If the virus was detected in a timely manner, then you can do without drug treatment using traditional medicine methods. Reviews from patients indicate the effectiveness and speed of action of “grandmother’s” methods.

How to cure HPV with folk remedies:

Potato juice. Freshly squeezed potato juice is used to lubricate papillomas and warts an unlimited number of times a day.
Celandine juice (can be purchased at a pharmacy). Lightly steam the problem area, then grease with a small amount of vegetable oil. Apply celandine juice directly to the papilloma, avoiding contact with healthy areas of the skin, twice a day. Remove dead areas of growths regularly if they do not fall off on their own.
Castor oil. Lubricate problem areas of the mucous membrane with the product until the tumors completely disappear.

Also, to suppress the papilloma virus, you can use special herbal preparations, which can easily replace traditional ones.

Note! On the possibility of replacing drug treatment traditional methods You should consult your doctor. Not all traditional medicine helps in certain cases; for example, they will not help cure papillomas on the walls of the cervix and vagina.

When treating HPV, you should abstain from sexual activity, and also force your regular partner to get tested for the virus.

If you identify the symptoms in a timely manner and choose the right treatment, then it is quite possible to prevent the viral infection from turning into a cancerous state.

Without treatment, HPV does not go away on its own, like a common cold.

Identification of viruses that have a high risk of degeneration into malignant neoplasms requires immediate treatment. Otherwise, condylomas will continue to develop, although it should be noted that HPV cannot be completely removed from the body, you can only block its development and activity.

The main sign of infection with papillomavirus is the appearance of papillomas or condylomas. This is the name given to small growths that appear on the skin and mucous membranes of an infected person. Such neoplasms do not have a very pleasant aesthetic appearance, but in most cases they are benign. Known great amount varieties of this infection, among which there are also dangerous strains of the papilloma virus that can cause oncological diseases in women and men.

Many doctors and scientists believe that it is impossible to get rid of such a disease, but is this true? Can HPV be cured forever? Today we will try to answer the most current issues on a given topic.

Can patients completely get rid of the infection?

The prevalence of this disease in our time has reached truly enormous proportions. About 80-90% of adult men and women suffer from symptoms of papillomatosis, and a huge number of children are infected at birth. Therefore, the question of whether it can be cured is very important.

Medical scientists have been searching for an effective cure for a long time, but getting rid of HPV is not so easy. It is not yet possible to completely cure this disease. Existing methods of treating this infection help eliminate Clinical signs pathologies, but they do not destroy the virus, but only weaken its activity and transfer the disease to an inactive, latent form.

In medicine, there are still cases where a person managed to independently overcome the causative agent of papillomatosis. This phenomenon is quite rare, since complete disposal of the harmful microorganism in such a situation occurs naturally. It has been proven that, provided that all negative factors that contribute to the activation of papillomavirus are eliminated and the body’s defenses are increased, the immune system itself destroys the infection.

The problem is that eliminating absolutely all causes of papillomatosis is as difficult as finding effective medicine from this disease. Only some factors can be eliminated, but no more than two or three. Activation of HPV occurs under the influence of the following reasons:

prolonged stress and emotional stress;
decreased immune defense of the body;
infectious and inflammatory diseases;
malnutrition;
smoking and alcohol abuse;
heavy and frequent physical activity;
pathologies of the digestive system;
hormonal imbalance in women during breastfeeding and pregnancy.

Under the influence of such disorders, the patient’s immunity decreases, and the activity of the pathogenic virus becomes active.

HPV is not completely curable, but thanks to modern medical and surgical treatments, it is possible to get rid of it. clinical manifestations this illness. For this purpose, patients need to undergo a course of treatment and restore the normal reactivity of the immune system.

In most situations, it is not possible to destroy the papillomavirus. Remaining in the patient's body, it often does not cause any symptoms of the disease, since it is in a dormant state. But even in this case, treatment for this infection is recommended for all people infected with papillomatosis, since it can also cause men to develop cancer of the genital organs, nasopharynx and oral cavity.

Drug therapy

There are many methods for treating this disease, each of which is selected by the treating specialist depending on the type of virus and the location of the papillomas. Since it is impossible to completely cure HPV, therapeutic tactics focuses on eliminating the clinical symptoms of this infection. Antiviral medications and immunomodulators help relieve the patient from the signs of this disease.

Use of antiviral drugs

These drugs have a detrimental effect on the DNA structure of the pathogen, as a result of which further reproduction of the papilloma virus becomes impossible. Medicines antiviral series are distinguished by a variety of pharmaceutical forms, because symptomatic manifestations pathologies can occur anywhere. The doctor selects a medicine for the patient depending on the location of the growths. Therefore, the patient is prescribed both medications for external use (creams, ointments and gels) and drugs used internally (tablets, suppositories). Some antiviral drugs for the treatment of HPV come in the form of a solution and are intended for injection.

The most effective medications are those taken orally – these are tablets and injections. But it is quite difficult to cure papillomavirus without the use of gels and ointments, especially if the disease is in the active phase and symptoms of this infection have already appeared. During HPV therapy, care must be taken to ensure that tumors do not spread to healthy skin.

The most effective antiviral medications are:

Groprinosin - the drug has immunostimulating activity and has a detrimental effect on most pathogens of papillomatosis. The duration of treatment is from 14 days to 4-6 months. Effective against genital warts that appear on the mucous membrane. Prescribe 1-2 tablets of medication 3 times a day.
Valtrex - the main active ingredient of this drug is valacyclovir. The medication is prescribed to patients who suffer not only from papillomavirus, but also from concomitant sexually transmitted pathologies.
Amiksin - this antiviral drug is perfect for pregnant and lactating women. It is distinguished from other drugs by its absolute safety of use. The therapeutic course lasts no more than 28-30 days. The active component, tilon, provides a long-term reduction in viral activity.
Famvir - thanks to this medicine the viability of the infection is noticeably reduced. The basis of the medication is famciclovir, its use is recommended to begin at the earliest stages of the development of the pathology. The duration of the course of therapy takes from 5 to 7 days.

Attention! The required dosage of the antiviral drug is selected qualified doctor. Self-use of such medications is dangerous to health, as they affect the patient’s immune system. Remember that incorrect and uncontrolled use of such medications will only worsen the course of this disease!

Immunostimulating drugs

Immunostimulants are medications that enhance our body’s natural defenses. These medications also increase the effectiveness antiviral agents, therefore most often they are prescribed in combination with each other. The use of immunostimulants is necessary even for those people who have completely cured papillomatosis, because by taking these drugs, the patient may not be afraid of relapses of this disease.

Among the most popular drugs that have an immunostimulating effect are the following:

Viferon is an inexpensive and quite effective drug. There are many forms of this medicine - these are gels, suppositories and ointments. Basics active substance- alpha interferon. Viferon also has a regenerating and anti-inflammatory effect on the skin. It is often prescribed as part of complex therapy for HPV.
Neovir will help quickly and prevent the infection from reoccurring. The medication belongs to a number of immunomodulatory agents. Neovir has a unique composition that helps maintain the immune system in excellent condition. The medicine activates the production of interferons, which are responsible for protecting unchanged epithelial cells from virus attack. It is prescribed in the active phase of the pathology, when multiple papillomas appear on the patient’s body.
Isoprinosine - sold in tablet form for internal use. The drug itself has both immunostimulating and antiviral properties. The spectrum of action of this medication is quite wide - it ensures the elimination of most types of papillomaviruses. Isoprinosine restores the full functioning of the immune system and stimulates the production of lymphocytes. Thanks to this medicine, you can cure HPV in the early stages or stop the progression of the disease in later stages.
Genferon - you can purchase this product in the form of rectal and vaginal suppositories, spray. The drug helps stop further development infections regardless of how long the disease lasts. A definite plus The antibacterial and antiviral properties of Genferon are also considered.

If any adverse reactions occur on the skin or mucous membranes, you must immediately stop using the medication and seek advice from your doctor.

Good to know! Not everyone can be cured of HPV forever. The virus is quite strong and has many variations, so not all medications help patients. The use of immunostimulants activates a person’s natural defenses and protects him from relapses of papillomatosis.

Surgical methods

“How to get rid of HPV, and is it even possible?” - These are the questions almost every patient asks after hearing this diagnosis for the first time. Symptomatic signs of infection can be eliminated surgically. But you will not be able to achieve complete destruction of the pathogen in this way. After removal of tumors with one of surgical methods the patient also needs to take a course of immunomodulatory and antiviral drugs.

The appearance of pathological growths on skin and mucous membranes of the patient can cause psychological and physical discomfort. The patient himself chooses whether to remove these growths or not. If papillomas prevent him from leading a normal sex life, interfere with the process of urination, or become a source of other problems, a decision is made about surgical intervention. In this case, a person is offered a choice of several methods of destruction - surgical removal tumor-like formations.

Electronic coagulation

In this situation, the human papillomavirus is eliminated using electricity. A high-voltage electric current acts on the tissue structures of the neoplasm.

As a result, the growth cells are cauterized, which causes their destruction and rejection. First, the tumor becomes covered with a hard crust and then disappears. The method is quite popular and inexpensive.

Laser Application

Helps cure the symptoms of the disease and completely cleanse the skin of pathological formations. Laser therapy clogs the vessels supplying nutrients and oxygen to papilloma. The method is practically painless, treatment is carried out without blood loss. The healing process of affected skin lasts from 14 to 18 days.

Radio wave removal

In this case, the growth tissue is excised using a radio wave knife. Treatment is carried out under local anesthesia, as this operation is quite painful. Many doctors call radio wave therapy one of the most effective.

Surgical excision

The simplest method of getting rid of tumors caused by the activity of papillomavirus. Pathological growths of the epidermis are removed using a scalpel.

The patient is given local anesthetics to numb the operated area of the skin. The disadvantage of such therapy is the formation of small scars that appear in place of previously removed growths.

Cryodestruction

Involves freezing tumor-like formations. For this purpose, in medicine they prefer to use liquid nitrogen. After such treatment, the papilloma acquires a lighter shade, becomes much harder, and then completely disappears. As a result of such therapy, scars either do not remain at all, or they are so small that they are practically invisible.

How will vaccination help?

When asking the question of whether it is possible to cure HPV, no one thinks about preventing this infection. But a vaccine against this pathology has been developed by scientists a long time ago. It has been successfully tested and proven effective against most strains of papillomavirus.

They first started vaccinating people against this disease in the United States, and now this method of prevention is actively supported by more than 100 countries around the world. Previously, the vaccine was given mainly to girls aged 14 to 24 years, but then a male vaccine also appeared. In many developed countries, the population is still in their teens, and the procedure itself is covered by insurance. The vaccination is done with the drugs Gardasil and Cervarix.

Scientists are still arguing about whether it is necessary to vaccinate against this disease. The medicine is considered absolutely safe, and the risk of severe allergic reactions and others side effects is only 0.003%. And this despite the fact that the vaccine shows very high effectiveness - from 97% to 100%. Therefore, the question: “Should I be vaccinated against HPV?” - disappears by itself. Perhaps vaccination is the only effective way reliable protection from papillomatosis.

Statistics say that about 85-90% of unvaccinated females aged 45-50 years are infected with at least one of the 100 types of papillomavirus. Some strains of the HPV pathogen are highly oncogenic. Timely vaccination helps reduce the number of cancers in women tenfold.

Interesting! If vaccination against this infection occurred in adolescence, before the first sexual intercourse, it becomes almost impossible for such a person to become infected through sexual contact. The need for vaccination is decided individually for each patient; for this purpose, you should visit your doctor.

How to recover from HPV and how possible is it? Getting rid of this infection is much more difficult than preventing infection with papillomatosis. But the prevention of this disease is very simple - it is necessary to observe hygiene standards, use barrier contraceptives. It is also advisable to apply an antiseptic liquid after contact with the skin of another person. Try to prevent infection with the papilloma virus, and you will not have to worry about whether this disease is curable. Be always healthy!

Human papillomavirus (HPV, HPV) is a DNA virus that promotes active cell division in the body, which leads to the appearance of genital warts, warts and papillomas on the skin of the anorectal area. Today it is known that there are more than 100 types of human papillomavirus, each of which has varying degrees oncogenicity.

The greatest danger of this infection is that the papilloma virus in women can cause the development of a malignant tumor of the cervix, vulva or anus. Therefore, timely diagnosis and treatment of human papillomavirus infection can minimize the risk of developing cancer, especially of the cervix.

Considering the danger of this infection, we want to tell you where the human papillomavirus comes from, how human papillomavirus infection manifests itself and how to cure it. We will also introduce you to modern methods diagnosis and prevention of human papillomavirus in women.

The type of human papillomavirus determines how the human papillomavirus infection will develop and manifest itself in the future, as well as the choice of treatment methods.

Human papillomaviruses are usually divided according to their degree of oncogenicity. Thus, all types of virus can be divided into three groups. HPV typing allows us to identify a group of patients at high risk of developing cancer.

The first group includes five types of non-oncogenic HPV, namely 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5. The listed types are not oncogenic, and therefore cannot cause cervical cancer.

The second group consists of human papillomavirus types 6, 11, 42, 43 and 44, which have a low degree of oncogenicity. By themselves, representatives of this group cannot cause cancer of the cervix, vulva or anus, but can pave the way for the appearance of malignant tumors.

The third group of HPV is considered the most dangerous, which consists of types 16, 18, 31, 35, 39, 45, 51, 52, 56, 59 and 68. The listed types of HPV have highest degree oncogenicity. Almost 80% of women infected with these types of human papillomavirus will sooner or later develop cancer of the cervix, vulva or anus, and the risk of breast cancer also increases significantly.

Human papillomavirus in women: causes

The causative agent of papillomavirus infection is the DNA human papillomavirus. This virus penetrates not only the mucous layer, but also the deeper layers of the skin.

There are a number of factors that contribute to human papillomavirus infection, namely:

The routes of transmission of human papillomavirus can be as follows:

The main route of transmission is sexual. The infection can be transmitted to girls not only during unprotected vaginal and anal intercourse, but also during petting.

If a woman suffers from papillomavirus infection and there are condylomas or papillomas on the walls of the vagina or labia, then the child may also become infected with them during childbirth.

It is also possible to become infected with HPV through a handshake, personal hygiene items, pool water, sauna, etc.

Why is human papillomavirus dangerous in women?

The human papillomavirus, if the immune system is strong, is self-healing in 90% of cases. But in the presence of favorable conditions, which are created by the above factors, papillomavirus infection can transform into cancer of the vulva, cervix, labia or anus.

As we have already said, in 70% of women with cervical cancer, human papillomaviruses, which belong to the third group, were identified in their blood. HPV types 16 and 18 are considered the most dangerous.

Human papillomavirus in women on the cervix requires immediate attention therapeutic measures to exclude the development of dysplasia and then cancer.

In addition, papillomavirus increases the risk of contracting other sexually transmitted infections, and can also be transmitted to a child during passage through the genital tract.

Each type of human papillomavirus has its own characteristics and specific symptoms. Let's look at them.

Human papillomavirus type 16 in women

Human papillomavirus 16 is a common type of HPV found in more than half of infected people. This type is highly oncogenic.

The pathogenesis of human papillomavirus infection caused by HPV 16 is that the pathogen invades the genome of the body's cells and blocks the processes of natural antitumor defense, as a result of which papillomas, condylomas or warts appear on the skin.

In women infected with HPV 16, gray or brown flat spots with a rough surface of various sizes appear on the skin of the genitals and anorectal area. Such rashes are called bowenoid papulosis.

The second sign of papullovirus infection caused by HPV 16 may be genital warts, which appear not only in the genital area, but also in the eyelids, thighs, neck, armpits, etc.

The most dangerous manifestation of HPV 16 is intraepithelial neoplasia of the cervical mucosa, which belongs to precancerous conditions.

Human papillomavirus type 18

HPV 18 is another oncogenic virus that, integrating into the DNA of cells human body, blocks the functioning of the immune system and promotes the formation of benign tumors. Such tumors are prone to malignancy.

Papillomavirus type 18 can cause cervical cancer in women. This trend has been proven by scientists who identified this type of virus in 70% of women with cervical cancer.

Signs of HPV 18 activation:

genital warts on the skin of the genitals and anus. When injured, these tumors may bleed. Condylomas are most prone to malignancy;
papillomas. These rounded neoplasms do not differ in color from the skin, but rise above its level. Most often, papillomas affect the skin axillary area and genitals, but in advanced cases they can spread to other areas.
warts, round rashes that rise above the skin and are red or dark in color.

HPV 31 is not only dangerous, but also an insidious oncogenic virus, since it can persist in the body asymptomatically for a long time.

Symptoms of human papillomavirus infection appear when favorable conditions are created in the body, that is, the immune system weakens under the influence of various factors(hypothermia, hormonal imbalance, exacerbation chronic diseases, acute infections, venereal diseases etc.). Moreover, this type of virus is equally dangerous for both females and males.

Papillomavirus type 31 in women manifests itself as papillomas and condylomas in the genital and anorectal areas. There may also be vaginal discharge, pain during intercourse, discomfort in the vagina, and others.

Human papillomavirus type 33

HPV 33- this is another one dangerous virus, which can provoke the emergence of a carcinogenic process.

Symptoms of human papillomavirus type 33 in women can manifest as warts on the genitals. The incubation period for this type of human papillomavirus infection is 12-16 weeks. After this time, genital warts with a wide stalk are detected on the labia, vaginal walls and cervix. A feature of condylomas caused by HPV 33 is that they do not have clear boundaries and a smooth surface.

This type of virus can also cause a precancerous condition called cervical intraepithelial neoplasia.

Human papillomavirus type 35

Human papillomavirus type 35 in women can manifest itself with the following symptoms:

the formation of warts, which is more common in girls;
genital warts, which occur on the genitals and tissues of the anorectal area. This type of neoplasm progresses very quickly, turning into large spots;
Flat condylomas rarely appear with human papillomavirus infection type 35. But nonetheless, this type Condyloma is dangerous because it often degenerates into a cancerous tumor.

The listed neoplasms are accompanied severe itching, pain and discomfort. Women may also have symptoms of body intoxication in the form of fever, chills, increased sweating and general weakness.

Human papillomavirus type 39 is also included in the group of viruses with a high risk of oncogenicity. It should be said that this type of virus is most dangerous for women, since men are mainly carriers of the infection.

Papillomavirus type 39 in women can cause the formation of both warts and papillomas or condylomas, which are prone to degeneration into malignant neoplasms. Most often, such neoplasms are localized on the walls of the vagina and cervical canal.

Human papillomavirus type 45

Papillomavirus type 45 in women is also highly oncogenic. Moreover, the first signs of human papillomavirus infection can appear even 20 years after infection.

During the course of human papillomavirus infection caused by type 45 virus, three stages are distinguished. The first stage is characterized by the appearance of genital warts and condylomas. The second stage of the disease is accompanied by dysplasia of the cervical epithelium. The most dangerous stage is the third stage, which is characterized by the development of cancer of the cervix, vulva or anus.

Human papillomavirus type 51

Symptoms of human papillomavirus type 51 in women appear already during the incubation period, which can last several years. During this period, women develop single genital warts, genital warts or flat condylomas. The classic localization of these neoplasms is the genitals (vaginal walls, cervix, labia minora and labia majora), but the process can also spread to the eyelids, inguinal and axillary areas.

What human papillomavirus infection type 51 looks like can be seen in the photos presented.

Human papillomavirus type 52

A peculiarity of human papillomavirus type 52 in women is that it is activated mainly during the period when the aging of the body begins (after 35 years).

This type of human papillomavirus infection is characterized by the same symptoms as other types, namely: warts and condylomas on the genitals, as well as cervical dysplasia.

Human papillomavirus type 56 is characterized by a short incubation period (up to three months).

Symptoms of papillomavirus type 56 in women appear at the end incubation period and are characterized by the formation of genital warts and genital warts on a thin stalk, which are localized on the walls of the vagina and cervix. In advanced cases, cervical dysplasia occurs, which is a precancerous condition.

Human papillomavirus type 59

A distinctive feature of human papillomavirus type 59 in women is that warts and condylomas affect not only the genitals, but also the anus and rectum, which increases the risk of developing anorectal cancer.

Warts reach enough large sizes(up to 10 mm) and have a rough surface and uneven edges, which can be seen in the photo.

Genital warts have a thin stalk and a pointed apex (see photo). The color of condylomas may differ from the color of the skin.

Papillomas are characterized by rapid growth and spread.

Skin rashes (condylomas, warts and papillomas) can be easily seen during external and internal gynecological examination (see photo).

Also, in the process of diagnosing HPV, colposcopy can be used - examination of the cervix with a special device - a colposcope, which allows you to enlarge the image several times and even display the image on a computer monitor.

But the most accurate diagnostic method is an analysis for the human papillomavirus, which is carried out using a polymerase chain reaction(PCR).

PCR is used to confirm the presence of human papillomavirus in female body, and to identify its type.

The “gold standard” for diagnosing HPV is the Digene Test, which determines the number of viral bodies in the body. Knowing the number of viruses in the body, you can estimate the risk of developing cervical cancer.

Also, all patients with suspected HPV are prescribed a cytological examination.

How to treat human papillomavirus in women?

Treatment of human papillomavirus in women can be conservative and surgical.

Tablets against human papillomavirus should have both antiviral and immunomodulatory effects. The following medications are considered the most effective today:

Monotherapy with these drugs is rarely used. Basically, one medicine is combined with another, for example, Allokin-alpha is prescribed systemically, and Epigen-intim cream is prescribed locally. Therapy is also supplemented with immunomodulators, such as Likopid, Immunomax and others.

Since genital warts, papillomas, genital warts and cervical dysplasia increase the risk of cancer, they are removed using minimally invasive procedures. surgical techniques, which include the following:

electrocoagulation;
laser removal;
cryodestruction;
chemotherapy;
removal by radio waves and others.

In severe cases, cervical amputation may be used.

Is there specific prevention of human papillomavirus?

Today in our country two vaccinations against human papillomavirus in women are certified, namely: Gardasil and Cervarix.

These vaccines protect the body from HPV types 16 and 18, which most often cause cervical cancer. In developed countries of America and Europe, these vaccines are included in the vaccination schedule for girls. For example, in Germany, vaccination against HPV is indicated for all girls over 12 years of age. Vaccination is carried out in three stages.

In Russia, the vaccine can be purchased at pharmacy chains. average cost of the drug is 7200 rubles.

Oncology and AIDS are two diseases that are today called the “plague of the 21st century.” And if you can become infected with AIDS on your own, then oncology occurs on its own. Human papillomavirus - dangerous disease, which precedes the formation of tumors. Timely diagnosis, treatment and prevention of papillomas significantly reduce the risk of developing cancer. Therefore, you should be very attentive to any changes in the skin.

Papilloma - benign education on the surface of the skin, which occurs as a result of infection with the human papillomavirus. Science knows more than a hundred types of HPV, which are conventionally divided, depending on the degree of malignancy, into three types:

High oncogenic risk. HPV 16, 18. Their presence in the blood always causes cancer.
The average oncogenic risk is 6, 11. They are provoked by genital warts on the genitals. They can develop into cancer without timely treatment.
Low oncogenic type - 1 - 5, 10, 27, 49, 28. These are warts and calluses.

The virus can be transmitted through household contact (through open cracks and wounds), sexually, and from mother to child. Once in the body, the infection spreads through the skin and mucous membranes. It doesn't get into the blood.

Papillomas appear on the body absolutely anywhere - on the face, neck, arms, legs, genitals, larynx, etc.

From infection to the appearance of the first signs of the disease, it takes from two to three months to several years. The virus can be detected using blood tests and scrapings. There are cases when a person heals on his own, without the help of medications. Some people live with the infection all their lives and experience its manifestations only during periods of reduced immunity.

HPV stages, complications

The formation of papillomas is a dangerous infection that requires observation and treatment. From HPV to cancer - just four steps. The infection develops in four stages:

Latent - the virus is in the body, but has not yet manifested itself. Self-healing often occurs at this stage.
Clinical - the appearance of the first signs - warts, papillomas, condylomas.
Dysplasia - a change in tissue structure towards tumors.
Carcinoma is a malignant tumor that affects epithelial cells.

Undoubtedly, carcinoma is the most terrible complication of the virus. However, in addition to it, other unpleasant diseases may arise:

Warts (vulgar). Children often suffer. Formations may disappear on their own.
Flat warts are small papillomas on the face and palms. Appear mainly in adolescence. They pass on their own.
Plantar warts grow deep into the skin, causing discomfort and pain. Formed in places where shoes rub. Treated surgically.
Genital warts are oncogenic formations that affect intimate organs- the head of the penis in men, the labia in women, the anus.
Epidermodysplasia - pink rashes similar to warts.
Formation of papillomas in the larynx. Newborns who have contracted the infection from their mother, as well as children under six years of age, suffer from the disease. Symptoms - hoarse voice, difficulty breathing, painful swallowing.
Papulosis is flat or semicircular growths that arise as a result of promiscuity.

Causes of virus infection

In recent years, the papilloma virus has become the most common infection. Some types are very dangerous to health, as they can cause cancer. However, there are also those that are absolutely safe for humans. Besides, strong immunity can overcome the disease on his own. And vice versa, a decrease protective functions the body is a “red light” for many diseases, including the human papillomavirus.

Main causes of infection:

Weakened immunity, recent inflammations and diseases (flu, STDs, etc.).
Stress, nervous breakdowns.
Promiscuous sexual relations. It should be remembered that a condom does not protect against the papilloma virus.
Alcohol abuse, smoking.
Visiting places of high humidity - swimming pools, saunas, beaches.

Once in the body, the virus provokes papillomas on the body, but at the same time it does not penetrate the blood. The infection multiplies in the layers of the dermis, and until it has moved to the epithelium, it is not infectious.

Timely detection of papillomas can save a person from its possible consequences.

Symptoms of papillomavirus

When the papilloma virus is detected, treatment must begin immediately. Especially if HPV is a high oncogenic type.

Of course, it is impossible to independently determine the type of virus. We need to get some tests done. Contact a dermatologist for detailed diagnostics and treatment is needed when:

Small tumors appeared on the body. Tubercles with or without a thin base.
These neoplasms bleed when rubbed, and pain and burning are felt in the area of the lesions.
Neoplasms grow and change their appearance.
Tubercles of a high oncogenic type periodically rot.

The virus can “sit” in the body for a long time and not make itself felt. Having waited for the right moment, it begins to collect in certain places on the skin and disrupts cell reproduction. So, growths appear - warts, papillomas, condylomas.

Warts are irregularly shaped growths from 2 mm to a centimeter that have a rough surface. Largest quantity They are found on the arms, knees, and legs.

Papillomas are growths “on a stalk”. The number of papillomas is growing at a high speed and if you do not pay attention to this in time, they can soon cover the entire body.

Condylomas are papillomas that affect the genitals and anus.

Unlike warts, condyloma and human papilloma require treatment to begin immediately. After all, if at first the question may be about aesthetic appearance and discomfort, then soon you will have to solve a more complicated problem (cancer).

Diagnosis and treatment of HPV

When even minor formations appear on the body, for the purpose of prevention it is worth contacting a specialist. Perhaps there is nothing serious. Or it may happen that neoplasms become a favorable background for the occurrence of tumors.

To diagnose growths caused by HPV, the following methods are used:

Visual inspection of lesions.
If papillomas have formed on the cervix, colposcopy and cytological examination are necessary.
Biopsy.
Blood test for the presence of viral DNA (PCR).
Blood for tumor markers.

How to treat papillomas will depend on their type. Therapy can only be prescribed when clinical course diseases.

Main methods of treatment:

Injections into the lesions, which are carried out at intervals of once a week. The drug "Bleomycin" is used.
Facilities local application- ointments, creams, retinoids. The main purpose of such drugs is to cauterize the growths.
Electrocoagulation is the effect of electric current on papillomas.
Cryotherapy is treatment using low temperatures.
Laser exposure.
It is also possible to treat papilloma with folk remedies.
IN mandatory use drugs to enhance immunity.

The duration of therapy courses and their effectiveness depend only on the stage of papilloma and its oncogenic type. After treatment, the infection may leave the body forever, or may recur over time.

A good way to prevent HPV is vaccination. The vaccine is given between the ages of 9 and 26 years. The drug is administered three times at intervals of several months. The effectiveness of the vaccine is 95-100%! In many countries it is used to prevent cervical cancer.

Treatment of papilloma with folk remedies

HPV is a disease caused by microorganisms of the Papovaviridae type. The virus most often attacks people with low immunity. Timely contact with a dermatologist reduces the risk of spreading the infection, as well as subsequent complications.

In addition to the general complex therapy prescribed by the doctor, it is also possible to treat papilloma with folk remedies.

The affected areas should be lubricated with potato juice (for a month or two).
Fir oil, celandine, and dandelion juice are rubbed into the resulting warts and papillomas. The course of treatment is individual.
Hare cabbage compresses (mush of leaves).
Rowan berry pulp (you can also use garlic or Kalanchoe) is applied to the wounds for six hours, after which the lesions are washed and a compress from fresh pulp is applied again.
Baths made from infusions of St. John's wort and chamomile (effective for genital condylomas).
"Garlic cream" Mix grated garlic with two tablespoons of hand cream. Apply the resulting mixture to the affected areas of the skin for three to five hours.
Treatment of papillomas ammonia. The growths are first moistened with water.
Pour vinegar (100 ml) over the zest of two lemons. Leave in the dark for a week. Strain and make lotions from the resulting mass.

Getting rid of papilloma (treatment with folk remedies) is possible only in combination with the main therapy.

Prevention of papilloma virus

Whatever the disease, it is more important to prevent it than to treat it. Good prevention all diseases - a healthy lifestyle and strong immunity. When the body's defenses weaken, a favorable background appears for the introduction of all kinds of infections.

The best way to prevent the appearance of papillomas is to maintain personal hygiene and have sex with only one regular partner.

Prevention measures also include:

Vaccination.
Healthy lifestyle.
Proper nutrition.
Timely treatment of wounds.
Lack of humidity (ignore visits to swimming pools and saunas).
No stress.
Blood for PCR.
Blood for tumor markers.

You should treat all sorts of diseases in a timely manner and not bring your body to an extreme state.

If papillomas do appear on the body, you should immediately consult a dermatologist. Treatment may not always be required.

Papillomovirus and oncology

Neoplasms that appear as a result of infection with the human papillomavirus are a suitable background for the development of cancer. The virus is transmitted sexually and very often provokes papillomas on the genitals (genital warts).

U women HPV causes cervical cancer, cancer in men prostate gland. The trouble with infection is that it remains in the body for a long time and does not make itself felt. Therefore, for prevention purposes, it is recommended to visit specialists once a year, as well as donate blood for tumor markers.

The best way to fight infection is vaccination. This is almost one hundred percent protection against cancer caused by oncogenic types of papillomas. It is also important to maintain immunity and avoid stress. After all, who needs such sad consequences?!

HPV in children

HPV is the most common virus. It infects about 80% of the entire population, including children. The virus does not manifest itself in any way if a person has a strong immune system. When the body's defenses are reduced, the sore begins to attack.

Children are most susceptible to the disease. Papillomas and warts are often found in schoolchildren and children preschool age. Sometimes warts go away on their own; it is also possible to treat papilloma with folk remedies.

The virus can infect a child's larynx. Thus, papillomatosis develops. Symptoms: shortness of breath, hoarse voice, difficulty breathing. IN severe cases Throat spasms and suffocation appear. HPV can develop in children along with respiratory infections(ARVI, influenza). Removal of growths occurs surgically. If human papilloma is found in children's throats, treatment should be carried out immediately. After all, death is possible.

HPV in pregnant women

Doctors scare many expectant mothers dire consequences HPV during pregnancy. It should be noted that not all types of virus are dangerous.

If a papilloma virus is detected during pregnancy, treatment directly depends on its oncogenic type. HPV 6 and 11 are dangerous for both mother and child. In a woman, this is the development of cervical cancer, in a baby, papillomatosis.

Other types, if they do not cause discomfort, do not need to be treated. In extreme cases, physical methods of therapy are used - laser, cryotherapy, cauterization.

Conclusion

Human papilloma (photos of patients with the virus can often be seen in the offices of oncologists) is a dangerous precancerous disease. When an infection is detected in the body, constant monitoring and diagnosis by a specialist is necessary. Timely medical intervention often saves lives!

Every sixth person is a carrier of the papillomavirus - this is indicated in WHO data. The human papillomavirus is transmitted through contact, including sexual contact. Occasionally, cases of household HPV infection have been reported in medical practice. Infection can occur during childbirth through the vertical route (from mother to baby).

At first glance, carriage of papillomavirus may not seem dangerous. The person complains only about the mucous membranes -.

These benign neoplasms can form on any part of the body:

face;
under the breast;
in the armpits;
on the genitals;
on the mucous membranes of internal organs, oral and nasal cavities.

Lack of therapy for HPV is fraught with the development of malignant tumors in men and women. The activity of the virus contributes to the development of cancer of the larynx and oral cavity.

The papillomavirus does not affect the course of pregnancy. But during this period, expectant mothers may observe an increase in the number of condylomas () or their unexpected disappearance. Accumulations of large condylomas in the genital tract and at risk heavy bleeding and difficulty in childbirth.

The most dangerous complications of infection during pregnancy include the risk of infection of the fetus during passage through the genital tract. After childbirth, the child of an infected mother develops polyposis respiratory tract. However, there have also been cases when the infection in children disappeared several months after birth.

Caesarean section slightly reduces the risk of infection in the newborn. Experts insist on such intervention if there is a massive accumulation of condylomas in the genital tract of a woman in labor or if it is impossible to give birth naturally.

Conservative therapy in the treatment of papillomavirus

How to treat human papillomavirus? Help for the patient begins with the prescription of conservative therapy.

If a wart or condyloma has not degenerated into a malignant tumor, doctors focus on drugs that act on cells with the HPV genome.

As for immunomodulators, their use becomes possible only after establishing immune status patient and sensitivity determination immune cells to specific medications. Prescribing antiherpetic drugs is pointless, since they are not able to improve the condition of a person who is a carrier of the papillomavirus.

Typically, to treat an infection, experts prescribe:

Isoprinosine is prescribed for the treatment of human papillomavirus infection. His active substance is a purine derivative that has an immunostimulating and antiviral effect. Children are treated with it after 3 years of age. Indications for prescribing the drug are the presence of papillomas on the vocal cords, genitals and larynx, fibrous manifestations of human papillomavirus infection, cytomegalovirus infection, etc.

People suffering from human papillomavirus - reviews of Isoprinosine are positive. By following the dosages prescribed by the doctor, it is really possible to achieve the disappearance of papillomas.

To strengthen the immune system at home, brew tea from hop cones, oregano herb, motherwort, linden color, lemon balm, coriander seeds and marsh cudweed, valerian roots. The crushed components are taken in quantities of 1 tbsp. l. each, pour into a thermos and pour over 2 cups of boiling water. The next morning the drink is ready to drink. They drink it 4 times. per day in equal portions.

Hardware procedures in the treatment of HPV

Symptoms of human papillomavirus infection are warts,. They get rid of them using electro- and chemical coagulation and cryodestruction. possible through radio and laser therapy.

How to cure human papillomavirus? Chemical coagulation carried out with the drugs Solkovagin and Solcoderm.

They are good for treating manifestations of papillomavirus on the vaginal mucosa and cervix. These medications are a mixture of organic and non-organic acids, but they are effective only for removing single condylomas. The procedure is approved for treatment nulliparous women. But along with its effectiveness, it is worth noting the average pain and possible formation scars.

Cryodestruction, or treatment of tumors with low-temperature liquid nitrogen, is fast and painless. When removing single ones from the cervix, scars may remain on it.

What to do if the human papillomavirus manifests itself - through the appearance of flat and condylomas on the skin? In this case, doctors use surgical laser. The device facilitates the removal of growths at any depth without consequences - scarring. Complications of the procedure may include bleeding and narrowing of the cervical canal of the uterus.

The priority direction in HPV therapy belongs to the Gardasil vaccine. The drug is able to defeat even highly oncogenic types of the virus. The vaccine minimizes the risk of cancer and accelerates the production of immune memory. This means that under its influence, protective antibodies are produced that were present in the body before infection.

A radiosurgical method for treating manifestations of papillomavirus is performed with the Surgitron device. Along with the removal of condyloma, the specialist performs coagulation of blood vessels. The excised element must be subjected to histological examination.