H PV, Genital Wart, Condyloma
Human Papilloma Virus (H PV) is a very common virus (germ) that causes abnormal cells or growth of tissue on the skin of the body. H PV can cause abnormal tissue changes on the feet, hands, vocal cords, mouth and genital (sex) organs. Over 60 types of HPV have been identified so far. Each type infects certain parts of the body. In gynecology, we are concerned about the types of HPV that infect the female organs.
Why Is HPV Important?
HPV is important because the abnormal tissue caused by some types of the virus
can lead to cancer of the female organs. Finding and treating HPV-related
tissue changes is a way to prevent cancer.
Where Does HPV Grow?
H PV can grow on the cervix (opening to the uterus), vagina (birth canal),
vulva (lips of the vagina), urethra (opening urine comes through) and the
anus (opening for bowel movements).
There are two kinds of abnormal tissue caused by H PV: CONDYLOMA (warts) and DYSPLASIA (pre-cancer). Doctors can evaluate you for presence of the abnormal tissue by examining the skin of the vulva and vagina and by doing a Pap smear.
CONDYLOMA (Gentile WartS) are wart-like growths found in the genital area,
most commonly on the outside or vulva. They are usually painless, but may
cause itching, burning or slight bleeding. Warts can also be found around
the urethra and anus. Inside the vagina and on the cervix, warts are usually
flat and Pap smears usually alert us to their presence.
DYSPLASIA is the presence of abnormal cells on the surface of the skin. Dysplasia
is not cancer, but may turn into cancer over a period of years if it is not
treated. Treatment gets rid of dysplasia so that the tissue cannot turn into
cancer.
The only way to tell if dysplasia is present on the skin of the genital organs
is by taking a Pap smear or a biopsy (piece of tissue). Dysplasia can be evaluated
through a magnifying glass called a colposcope, but only the biopsy gives
the final diagnosis. Dysplasia is most often found on the cervix, but can
also be found on the vagina and vulva.
How Is Human Papilloma Virus Spread?
At this time, very little is known about how or when people become infected
with H PV. There is research being done to answer some of these questions.
What we do know is that H PV is mainly spread through sexual contact. Women
may be exposed to H PV and not develop dysplasia or Gentile Warts for many
years. Both men and women can be infected with the virus and not know it.
What we do not know about H PV
When can a person with H PV give it to another person?
How long is a person with H PV able to give it to somebody else?
Why do some people who are exposed to H PV get condyloma or dysplasia and other
people do not?
Prevention
There are three ways to decrease exposure to H PV and other sexually transmitted
diseases.
Using condoms (rubbers) during sex.
Monogamy - have sex with only one partner. To be effective, monogamy must
include both partners and be long term. It is helpful to discuss this with
your partner.
Celibacy - not having sex. This does not mean that other forms of closeness
need to be eliminated.
Examination Of Male Sexual Partners
We recommend that male sexual partners of women with Gentile Warts be examined
by a physician. If warts are found on exam the partner can be treated. If
warts are not found, the male may still carry H PV, but show no signs of it.
Some physicians are more knowledgeable about Gentile Warts than others. Dermatology,
Family Practice or Urology specialists will likely be most helpful. Ask the
nurse or physician if you have more questions.
Cigarette Smoking
If you have been exposed to H PV and also smoke, the chance that you will develop
dysplasia is much higher. If you already have dysplasia, stopping smoking
may reduce your chance of the dysplasia coming back after treatment.
