The human papilloma virus is one of the most common and is present in the body of 90% of the world's population. Most of its carriers are not even aware of its presence and do not detect any suspicious symptoms in themselves. That is why it has become widespread.
What are papillomas?
Papilloma is a benign pathological formation of viral etiology. The appearance of papillomas is caused by the action of the human papilloma virus (HPV). On the skin it usually manifests itself in the form of cosmetic defects - warts and genitals, in the larynx can lead to respiratory failure, and on the mucous membrane of internal organs with bleeding and ulceration. There are 27 types of HPV - some are safe for health, others can develop malignant tumors and lead to cancer.
In identifying them, special attention should be paid to women, since they have a high risk of developing the cervix. Pregnant women are at risk of infection during pregnancy.
HPV is characterized by a latent (latent) course and although a person has a strong immunity, the virus does not manifest itself in any way (the incubation period lasts from 2 weeks to several years). Under the influence of several factors, the virus is activated, multiplied and clinically manifested.
The cause of infection with the papilloma virus
Pathways of HPV infection:
- unprotected sex
- contact with the skin and mucous membranes of the infection
- use personal items of the wearer
- when visiting public places with high humidity and high crowds (swimming pool, sauna, beaches)
The most common is the sexual route of infection with the virus, domestic pathways are rarely recorded, since the virus lives in the environment for a short time.
Virus activation is facilitated by:
- weakened immunity
- infectious diseases
- upset gastrointestinal tract
- worsening chronic diseases
- pregnancy
- long-term use of some medicines (antibiotics, antidepressants, etc. )
- smoking, alcohol abuse
- severe stress
HPV penetration is facilitated by microtrauma, cracks, abrasions and other skin damage.
Symptoms of papilloma
Symptoms depend on the location of the formulation and the type of HPV. The first "bell" is an external manifestation of the presence of the virus in the form of genital warts (usually seen in intimate areas) and warts (often formed on the face, neck, limbs).
Less commonly, it is accompanied by papillomas-like symptoms:
- peeling, itching, redness (skin)
- discomfort when walking (genitals)
- discharge from the nipple (breast ducts)
- difficulty breathing (larynx)
- painful bowel movements (bowel)
Diagnosis of papillomas
Diagnosis is made by a venereologist, dermatologist, immunologist or gynecologist / urologist.
- Clinical examination - visual examination and conversation with the patient.
- Laboratory and instrumental analyzes are prescribed to get a complete picture of the disease:
- general and biochemical blood testing
- PCR (Polymerase chain reaction) test - determines the type of virus and its size in the body.
If the only method of treatment is the removal of papillomas, then a biopsy of the material is performed in parallel to conduct a cytological study and determine the oncological risk.
Methods of treatment
There are no drugs and methods that can completely eliminate HPV from the human body. The effects only affect the effects of the virus. General antiviral therapy is performed in cases of highly oncogenic strains of the virus localized in the region of the anogenetic tract. Patients with previously diagnosed papillomas are advised to systematically examine and use barrier contraception to avoid infecting a partner with the virus.
Removal of papillomas is recommended, since the virus in the epithelial cells causes them to multiply, forming new papillomas or regenerating existing ones.
Depending on the location and properties of the papillomas, they resort to the following removal methods:
- Laser surgery - the papilloma is treated with a surgical laser beam. This method does not require hospitalization and the damaged area heals quickly enough. The laser is used on the face and visible parts of the body.
- Radiosurgery is a non-contact exposure to high-frequency radio waves, which remove an affected neoplasm. This method is recognized as effective, but costly.
- Cryodestruction - freezing of neoplasm with liquid nitrogen. Scars may remain at the exposed spot.
- Chemical destruction - cauterization with chemical acids. The procedure is quite delicate and there is a high risk of contact with nearby tissues and getting a chemical burn.
- Surgical excision - rarely used, in cases of suspected malignant process.
- Folk remedies - focal moxibustion with folk remedies (garlic, celandine, lemon balm, cabbage leaf, castor oil and others)
Vaccines are currently being developed to prevent highly oncogenic strains of the virus (species 16 and 18), which are used in many countries.
To prevent the disease, it is recommended to have protective sex, use personal hygiene items, strengthen the immune system and be regularly examined by an immunologist and gynecologist. If you experience symptoms of HPV, it is advisable to see a doctor immediately.