HPV Flashcards
What is human papillomavirus (HPV)?
HPV is a common virus that infects the epithelial cells of the skin and mucosa, with over 100 types identified.
How is HPV transmitted?
HPV is transmitted through direct skin-to-skin contact, typically during sexual activity, including vaginal, anal, and oral sex.
What are the types of HPV?
HPV types are classified as low-risk (e.g., HPV-6, HPV-11) and high-risk (e.g., HPV-16, HPV-18) based on their association with cancers.
What are low-risk HPV types associated with?
Low-risk types, such as HPV-6 and HPV-11, are associated with genital warts and benign lesions.
What are high-risk HPV types associated with?
High-risk types, such as HPV-16 and HPV-18, are associated with cervical, anal, oropharyngeal, and other cancers.
What are genital warts?
Genital warts are benign growths on the genital or anal area caused by low-risk HPV types, typically HPV-6 and HPV-11.
What are the symptoms of genital warts?
Symptoms include painless growths or lumps in the genital or anal area, itching, and occasionally discomfort.
How are genital warts diagnosed?
Diagnosis is usually clinical, based on the appearance of the lesions.
What are the treatments for genital warts?
Treatments include topical agents (e.g., podophyllotoxin, imiquimod), cryotherapy, surgical excision, or electrocautery.
Can genital warts recur after treatment?
Yes, genital warts can recur, as treatment removes the lesions but not the underlying HPV infection.
What are the complications of genital warts?
Complications include psychological distress, discomfort, and, rarely, obstruction of the genital or anal area.
What cancers are associated with high-risk HPV types?
High-risk HPV types are associated with cervical, anal, vulvar, vaginal, penile, and oropharyngeal cancers.
How does HPV cause cancer?
HPV integrates its DNA into host cells, disrupting normal cell regulation and promoting oncogenesis.
What is the role of HPV vaccination in prevention?
HPV vaccination protects against high-risk and low-risk HPV types, reducing the risk of cancers and genital warts.
What HPV vaccines are available?
Available vaccines include the bivalent (HPV-16, HPV-18), quadrivalent (HPV-6, 11, 16, 18), and nonavalent (nine HPV types) vaccines.
Who should receive the HPV vaccine?
HPV vaccination is recommended for adolescents, typically between 11 and 14 years, with catch-up programs for older individuals.
What is the schedule for HPV vaccination?
The vaccination schedule includes two doses for younger individuals and three doses for those starting later, typically over 15 years.
How effective is the HPV vaccine?
The HPV vaccine is highly effective in preventing infections with vaccine-covered types and associated conditions.
What are the side effects of the HPV vaccine?
Side effects are generally mild, including pain at the injection site, fatigue, and fever.
What is the role of cervical screening in HPV prevention?
Cervical screening detects precancerous changes caused by HPV, allowing early treatment to prevent cervical cancer.
What are the methods of cervical screening?
Screening involves cytology (Pap smear) or high-risk HPV DNA testing.
What is the significance of an abnormal cervical screening result?
Abnormal results may indicate the presence of HPV or precancerous changes requiring further investigation or treatment.
What is the management of high-risk HPV infection?
Management includes regular monitoring, colposcopy, and treatment of precancerous lesions if necessary.
Can HPV infection clear spontaneously?
Yes, most HPV infections are transient and clear spontaneously within two years, especially in younger individuals.
How can HPV transmission be reduced?
Transmission can be reduced by HPV vaccination, consistent condom use, and limiting the number of sexual partners.
