Human papillomavirus

The human papillomavirus (HPV) is a virus that can infect the skin or mucous membranes (like the genitals, or inside the mouth) of humans. They cause warts.Gordon, Marsha; Alice E. Fugate The Complete Idiot's Guide to Beautiful Skin Penguin Group 1998 page 192 Some of them may cause cancer. There are over 100 different virus types in this group. About 40 virus types can be transmitted sexually. About 12-15 can cause cancer. 

Most cases of HPV can be prevented by a vaccine,HPV vaccine fact sheet which also would stop the HPV from causing cancer. Most cases of cervical, oral and throat cancer are caused by HPV.HPV fact sheet The HPV immunisation programme has almost fully stopped cervical cancer happening in women born in England since September 1995. Prophylaxis (prevention) of HPV by vaccine is done with the HPV vaccine. 

A first step in treatment is the use of salicylic acid. This is available in pharmacies, usually without a prescription. If this does not help, the wart can be frozen and destroyed or a laser can be used to destroy it. If this still does not help, different methods of chemotherapy can be used.

References

 Other websites 
 Human Papilloma Virus (HPV)  from University of California, Santa Barbara's SexInfo
 hpv-centrum  - Video and info from the HPV, hpv centrums in Hungary
 CDC fact sheet - HPV fact sheet from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

Category:Viruses
Category:Sexually transmitted diseases