Human papilloma virus (HPV) is a germ that causes warts. More than 100 types of the virus exist and some cause common skin warts, while others cause genital warts. Strains of the virus that cause genital warts are further divided according to their risk of causing cervical cancer. Rutgers University notes that two types of high-risk HPV account for about 70 percent of cervical cancer cases.
Warts
Warts result from the invasion of skin cells by HPV, usually at sites of minor trauma, such as cuts or scratches. The appearance of the wart varies depending on the type of human papilloma virus and the site of infection. Common warts are often seen on fingers and hands. Flat warts are most commonly noted on the back of hands or on legs. Plantar warts develop on the soles of feet. These types of warts are quite benign and cause little in the way of complications beyond cosmetic alterations. Rarely, they may enlarge to a degree as to interfere with normal function of the digits. Warts may also develop around the eyes, mouth or throat and could impair vision or swallowing or breathing. These extreme cases are most often seen in those with impaired immune responses to the virus. Fortunately, the vast majority of warts go away without the need for treatment.
Genital Warts
HPV may cause warts in the genital area of males or females and is contracted by sexual contact. Warts on the penis, scrotum or around the anus are generally of cosmetic concern only, unless they enlarge enough to obstruct normal function. A complication of HPV in the female genital tract is warts in and around the vagina, including the cervix. Again, these may rarely become large enough to affect urine flow or sexual function. While genital warts are unsightly, they will often resolve without specific treatment.
Cancer
Nearly all cervical cancer is a complication of infection with HPV, transmitted by sexual contact. Certain strains greatly increase the chance of malignant disease, while others carry little risk for malignancy. Human papilloma virus and cervical cancer are screened for with the use of the Pap test, which involves sampling of the cells in the area to be examined under a microscope. Early detection increases the odds of a successful and less invasive treatment. Cervical cancer has little in the way of symptoms until it becomes quite advanced, thus underlining the importance of screening.
Although uncommon, cancer of the penis, vulva, vagina and anus may be diseases attributable to HPV. In addition, HPV invasion of the throat could lead to cancers of the head or neck.
