HPV, also known as the human papillomavirus, is a commonly spread, sexually transmitted disease that can cause genital warts. It can also cause cervical cancer, as well as infect the anal region in men, leading to an increased risk of anal cancer. Although an HPV infection of the anus is more common in homosexual men who engage in anal sex, it can affect heterosexual men, as well.
HPV Types
There are over one hundred different types of HPV, explains the American Cancer Society. Of those, approximately 40 are termed "mucosal" HPV strains, which means that they commonly affect the areas around the genitals and the anus. These strains of HPV replicate better in the warm, moist skin around these organs and can cause genital and anal warts. The other strains of HPV typically cause warts in other parts of the body, such as the hands and feet.
Anal Warts
Most men who develop an anal HPV infection, notes the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), never develop any symptoms of the disease. Some patients, on the other hand, develop genital warts that infest the anus. These small growths can be flat, raised, or look like a cauliflower. In general, genital warts of the anus do not cause any pain, and they first appear within a few weeks of contracting the virus.
HPV and Anal Cancer
One of the more serious risks associated with an anal HPV infection in men is the development of anal cancer. Some of the mucosal strains of HPV can cause genetic changes in the cells of the anus. The American Cancer Society notes that 80 percent of all cases of squamous cell anal cancer are linked with an infection of strain 16 or 18 of HPV.
Anal Cancer Symptoms
Men with early stage anal cancer may not have any symptoms, states the CDC. When symptoms are present, they commonly involve anal itching or bleeding. These cancerous growths may be painful, or they may cause an abnormal discharge to appear in the feces. Anal cancer can also cause swelling of the lymph nodes near the anus or groin. Some men also experience changes in the shape of their stool or in their bowel habits.
Screening
There is no screening or diagnostic test that is commonly used to detect HPV infections in men, according to the CDC. Nevertheless, TheBody.com notes that an anal pap smear can look for changes in the anal tissue that can be indicative of anal cancer. This type of test takes a small sample of cells from the anal region to look for any cellular abnormalities. Also, medical professionals can use a high-resolution anoscope to look for any skin lesions in the anus that may be caused by an HPV infection. This is especially important for men who are HIV positive, as their weakened immune system puts them at a greater risk of developing various kinds of cancer, including cancers of the anus.
