Human papillomavirus causes cervical cancer. Erosion, HPV and cervical cancer: About the human papillomavirus. Public clinic or private? Where to treat sexually transmitted infections

The virus is divided into 2 types: microbes that have oncogenic properties and microbes that do not. The former cannot cause condylomas, papillomas and growths on the genitals. A virus that has non-oncogenic properties and is responsible for the development of papillomas and condylomas.

Most HPV cases go away on their own within two years. Each type of HPV can survive and develop into cervical cancer. Nowadays, this is a popular disease associated with HPV.

In the presence of small cracks, after abortion or childbirth, it is easier for the virus to enter the body, because the body is weakened and HPV easily penetrates and integrates into the human cell. If you find a virus, this does not mean that you will definitely get cancer; in most women, HPV goes away within a year and does not leave a single trace.

Based on this, HPV and cervical cancer are completely different concepts.
HPV cannot be cured with medication and cannot be removed from the body, like any virus.

It is safe for men, since they rarely develop any type of cancer of the glans penis; it is most dangerous for women, so monitoring by a gynecologist is required.

Papillomaviruses have existed for thousands of years. These are DNA viruses from the Papovaviridae family, whose activity extends to epithelial cells. The virus, entering the body, firmly settles in the lower layer of the epithelium, and resides there in two forms: benign and malignant. The most vulnerable area is the epithelium of the cervix.

The infection is transmitted vertically (from mother to fetus in the womb), through sexual contact, and also through direct contact with the mucous membranes or skin of a virus carrier or a sick person. Risk factors for human papillomavirus infection include infections spread through sexual intercourse, smoking, and the use of oral contraception.

Human papillomavirus is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections. Research shows that almost half of adult women are infected with sexually transmitted HPV, while oral human papillomavirus is much less common in women.

The HPV virus infects epithelial cells. These cells cover the surface of the body inside and out, including the throat, genitals, and anus. Therefore, the virus does not spread through blood. Once inside the cell, the papilloma virus begins to produce protein, allowing the cell to grow and strengthen uncontrollably.

Very often these new cells are recognized by the immune system and destroyed. However, in some cases, the infected cells are not destroyed and a persistent infection develops. Continued growth of such cells can lead to mutations and ultimately to tumors.

At the same time, studies prove that the formation of a tumor can take 10-20 years from the moment of infection, and even a very high degree of risk does not always lead to cancer. Approximately half, and even a little more, of HPV lesions of the cervix are benign.

Causes of cervical cancer

Despite all this data, the opinions of scientists differ: some believe that the causes of cervical cancer undoubtedly lie in HPV, while others are inclined to other factors that can affect the oncological process.

Such factors include:

• early or uncontrolled sexual activity;
• genetic predisposition to the disease;
• exposure to carcinogens and negative environmental situation;
• work in hazardous production;
• smoking, etc.

Apart from the influence of the virus on the development of cancer, other causes remain indirect. And they cannot be exact causes, but only factors.

It is important to note that without treatment, the virus will sooner or later develop into invasive cancer. For example, women with a good immune system may notice the first symptoms of cervical cancer 15-20 years after infection with the virus. Patients with weakened immune systems will detect the oncological process much faster in 5-10 years.

What types of cancer does HPV cause?

Cervical cancer is characterized by two types of cancer: squamous cell and adenocarcinoma. The first case is more common and can be found in young virgin girls who do not have sexual intercourse. Signs of a malignant tumor can appear at any age, although carcinoma, for example, is considered a very rare type of cancer. However, cases of the disease have been described.

A symptom of any type of cancer is bleeding and vaginal discharge. Bleeding weakens the body and leads to anemia, which complicates the course of the disease and its outcome. At later stages, signs of intoxication appear, which cause vomiting, fever, and chills. When spreading to the lymph nodes, an increased level of leukocytes and swelling are observed.

If the diagnosis is confirmed during pregnancy, a supporting uterine ring - a pessary - is prescribed, and treatment is postponed until the postpartum period.

Squamous cell carcinoma

Most cases of cervical cancer are caused by human papillomavirus 16 and 18. These same types of HPV are responsible for anal cancer and about half of other genital cancers. HPV 16 is also associated with about half of laryngeal cancer cases. In addition to the oncogenic HPVs themselves, the development of cancer, if present, is provoked by other factors:

• Smoking;
• Weakened immunity;
• Multiple births (cervical cancer);
• Poor oral hygiene (larynx cancer);
• Chronic inflammatory processes.

Clinical symptoms

HPV on the cervix in most cases is completely asymptomatic. It is for this reason that it is almost impossible to diagnose this pathology in a timely manner if a woman does not undergo preventive examinations by a gynecologist. At later stages of development of uterine papilloma, the following symptomatic signs may appear:

• sharply enlarged inguinal lymph nodes;
• burning sensation in the genital area;
• the presence of specific discharge from the vaginal cavity that has not appeared before.

Diagnosis of cervical dysplasia

Algorithm (order) for diagnosing cervical dysplasia: cytological examination of cervical smears (during a medical examination or an annual visit to a gynecologist);

in the presence of pathology, colposcopy, extended colposcopy (with acetic acid), treatment of the cervix with Lugol’s solution (optional) are performed sequentially.

targeted biopsy (under colposcope control) from suspicious areas of the cervix, scraping of the endocervical mucosa,

bimanual (vaginal-antero-abdominal) examination of the pelvis (to exclude diseases of the uterus and its appendages); According to indications, additional studies are prescribed (markers, PCR). If this diagnosis is established, a bacterioscopic and bacteriological examination of the vaginal flora is carried out before treatment.

This is due to the fact that, firstly, epithelial dysplasia is accompanied by an inflammatory process, and, secondly, their treatment against the background of inflammation can cause complications.

HPV infections in the human body are detected by examining tissue samples. There are a variety of tests to detect viruses, for example:

• Detection of high-risk HPV without identifying a specific type;
• Detection of HPV 16 and 18, which cause most cancers;
• Detection of HPV 16 and 18 among other high-risk viruses.

In principle, human papillomavirus can be detected in cells sampled from any part of the body. However, such studies are not practiced on a regular basis. Most often, women are examined for suspected cervical cancer.

When dysplasia is observed, which is combined with the human papillomavirus, there will not be a high risk of cancer. It should be taken into account that in addition to surgical intervention, antiviral treatment will also be rational.

There are no substances against papilloma - they have not yet invented a pill that you could take and forget about the problem, but there are drugs that act on a person’s immunity, forcing him to fight the infection.

The papilloma virus is removed over several months, if your immunity is strong and can overcome the virus.

Patients with mild dysplasia (CIN I) undergo conservative treatment.

For moderate (CIN II) and severe dysplasia (CIN III), as well as in the absence of effect in the treatment of mild dysplasia, APA, cryodestruction (cold exposure), laser therapy, knife (using a regular scalpel) amputation or conization of the cervix (tissue is excised) are used cone-shaped).

Electroconization of the cervix is ​​often performed. With all these effects, women retain their reproductive function.

For intraepithelial (preinvasive) cancer (CIN III), if a woman does not want to have children, extirpation (complete removal) of the uterus is performed. After organ-conserving operations, women should be under close follow-up.

All removed tissues are subject to histological examination. If invasive cancer (spreading beyond the basement membrane) is detected, the scope of therapeutic interventions expands and it is not possible to preserve reproductive function in all cases.

Symptoms of cervical cancer usually appear only in advanced stages of cancer and may include the following:

• irregular, intermenstrual (between periods) or abnormal vaginal bleeding after sexual intercourse;
• pain in the back, legs or pelvic area;
• fatigue, weight loss, loss of appetite;
• discomfort in the vagina or discharge with a foul odor; More severe symptoms may appear in advanced stages.

Cervical cancer screening is testing for precancer and cancer among women who have no symptoms and feel completely healthy. If screening reveals precancerous conditions, they can be easily treated and thus prevent the development of cancer. Screening can also detect cancer at an early stage with a high chance of cure.

Given that precancerous lesions develop over many years, it is recommended that every woman aged 30–49 years be screened at least once a year. Screening is only effective in reducing cervical cancer mortality if a significant number of women participate.

There are currently no medical treatments for papillomavirus. However, warts and precancerous conditions resulting from HPV infection can be cured.

Cervical papilloma is treated using cryosurgery (the affected tissue is frozen and destroyed); They also practice cauterization of the affected areas using a heated electrode, removal with a scalpel or laser, as well as laser destruction of areas of cervical tissue. Pointed papillomas are destroyed with chemicals, cryo-, electro- or laser surgery.

If cancer develops as a result of HPV infection, the patient is treated with the same methods as cancers acquired by other means, depending on the type and stage of development. Interesting results have been obtained in the treatment of laryngeal cancer caused by HPV, but these methods are in clinical trials.

Is it possible to do without surgery for cervical cancer?

If clinical signs of cervical papilloma are detected, treatment for such a disease should begin immediately. This pathology is quite serious and dangerous - which is why in such a situation you should not self-medicate.

Some women start using the Gardasil vaccine - this medication is considered one of the best drugs that help with papillomatosis. But it is unacceptable to use it independently, without the appointment of a specialist.

This vaccine protects against most dangerous strains of HPV, including oncogenic microbes types 16 and 18. Although even with the help of Gardasil, women will not be able to get rid of this disease completely and forever.

In this case, treatment of cervical papilloma consists of maximally suppressing the growth and development of viral cells and eliminating unpleasant external symptoms of infection.

Medications for such a disease are prescribed to help increase the body's defenses and support it in the fight against HPV. When papillomas appear in the uterus, the following medications are used:

• Immunomodulators (Genferon, Interferon).
• Cytostatic agents (Podophyllin, Bleomycin, 5-fluorouracil).
• Antiviral medications (Isoprinosine, Panavir).
• Destructive drugs that cause the destruction of growths.

Pregnant women are not recommended to take the medications listed above - because they can harm the unborn baby. Treatment of papillomas on the uterus is allowed only in the first three months of pregnancy; in other cases, treatment for such a disease is postponed until the birth of the child.

Since a newborn can become infected with HPV while passing through the birth canal, when planning a pregnancy, women are offered a method of delivery such as cesarean section. Before making such a difficult decision, patients should undergo all prescribed tests and consult with their gynecologist.

To successfully prevent papillomavirus, in some situations, alternative medicine recipes are used.

Using modern radiation therapy equipment, the method is completely painless. The prognosis after treatment of cancer in the early stages is positive.

As a preventive measure for cervical cancer, Elena Malysheva’s program discussed vaccination issues, although the fact that this vaccination works has not been proven. Doubts have been raised about the ability of vaccinated women to have children.

Relapses of cervical cancer

Complications associated with papillomas

You can read about such manifestations of HPV as warts in a separate article. Here we will tell you what complications can occur directly with genital warts, and what the likelihood of these problems is.

First of all, let’s figure out why condylomas in the anus and warts in intimate places are dangerous in general.

In most cases, the cause of genital warts in intimate places is viruses types 6 and 11. In this case, the risk of their malignancy (degeneration into cancer) is very small, although isolated cases have been reported.

In rare cases, especially if the papilloma is caused by a highly oncogenic strain, it can degenerate. It has been proven that the risk of malignant degeneration of a wart is associated with factors such as constant mechanical irritation and smoking.

Cervical erosion and condyloma are not related to each other, and cervical dysplasia is most often caused by a completely different type of virus. However, in such cases, cytological analysis is necessary.

What else is dangerous about genital warts (papillomas) is the increased risk of injury. The structural features of condylomas predispose to this. Being located on a thin stem, they are more susceptible to accidental injury and often simply tear off. This may be accompanied by slight bleeding and inflammation if other microorganisms invade the wound.

Patients are often tormented by the question of whether papilloma in the throat or mouth is dangerous. Laryngeal condylomas rarely pose a serious danger to the body. Most often, papillomas in the throat do not manifest themselves as anything other than hoarseness. But in isolated cases, complications such as tumor growth, blocking the airways, and its degeneration are possible. The situation is exactly the same with condylomas in the oral cavity.

Recent research has revealed a close connection between HPV and HIV infection. Unfortunately, the exact mechanisms behind this have not yet been studied. Today, we can speak with great confidence about the following facts:

An analysis of several observations showed that HIV-positive women are ten times more likely to experience HPV-related dysplasia and cervical cancer. According to some reports, these changes develop in every fourth HIV-infected woman if she has the human papillomavirus.

In general, HIV infection is more often detected in individuals with active manifestations of HPV.

It is assumed that the first fact is associated with the reduced immunity of HIV-positive people. It is already known that this risk directly depends on the degree of immunosuppression during HIV infection.

HIV-positive women are ten times more likely to experience HPV-related dysplasia and cervical cancer

Preventive measures

Since papilloma and cervical cancer are interrelated to prevent the development of the oncological process, it is important to protect yourself from HPV infection. The most justified method is vaccination. When developing the vaccine, the following points were taken into account:

1. polyvalency;
2. protection of uninfected women from highly oncogenic types of the virus;
3. treatment of already infected patients.

To date, vaccines have been created for preventive purposes, as well as for treatment. A polyvalent preventive vaccine was created, which is designed to reduce the number of infections by up to 90% from HPV types 16, 18, 11 and 6.

But the problem is that the vaccine is in experimental conditions, where it is designed to prove its effectiveness. According to scientists’ calculations, it will become available to the general public no earlier than in ten years.

At the same time, they will be able to prove the harmlessness of its use only after several decades. You should also take into account the fact that it is expensive; the vaccine will not be cheap.

Regarding therapeutic vaccines, they exist, but they are mainly directed after the main therapy as a conclusion of treatment. And such drugs have been developed only against viruses of types 16 and 18.

Preventive measures also include:

• increasing the culture of sexual activity, especially among adolescents;
• protected sexual intercourse;
• giving up bad habits, in particular smoking;
• timely treatment of chronic pathologies of female organs;
• systematic examination by a gynecologist.

Numerous studies have confirmed the relationship between the human papillomavirus and cervical cancer. But only certain types of the virus, with high oncogenicity, especially types 16 and 18.

In order to prevent the development of the oncological process, HPV should be treated in a timely manner, and even better, adhere to preventive rules. Also, any manifestations of the disease should not go unnoticed.

At the first symptoms, you should immediately consult a doctor for qualified advice and help.

HPV vaccine

There are currently two vaccines available. They protect the body from HPV 16 and 18, these types develop within 75% of cancer cells. The medicine includes unnaturally synthesizing proteins similar to 4 types of viruses 16, 18, 11, 6. After the proteins are directly introduced into the body, our antibodies perceive this as microbes and remember these proteins for life.

This vaccine protects against cancer of the cervix, vagina, genitals and high-grade tumors called genital warts. These vaccines may also provide protection against other types of HPV that cause cervical cancer.

Today, the world is resorting to two vaccines developed against HIV-16 and HPV-18 - as mentioned above, these viruses are detonators in the launch of cancerous conditions. According to the World Health Organization, viruses of these two types cause at least 70% of cervical cancer diseases.

Vaccines provide some level of protection against other types of HPV that are less common but just as dangerous for women. Thus, the effect of the drug Gardasil is directed immediately against four types of virus.

Both women and men should be immunized - this will help reduce the number of carriers of the virus. The sooner the vaccine is introduced, the better.

We are talking about early vaccination before the start of sexual life: in this case, the risk of infection with “cancerous” strains of the virus is practically reduced to zero. Moreover, the results of research in recent years have shown that HPV strains are transforming: those that were previously considered safe acquire oncogenic properties.

It is believed that the best vaccination age for girls is 9-13 years. A vaccine administered to young women with sexual experience and already acquired HPV strains will not be as effective and the threat of cervical cancer will remain.

Immunization does not replace screening, and vice versa - both of these programs complement each other and should be carried out everywhere.

Any deviation from this scheme can lead to disruption of the formation of immunity in vaccinated individuals.

A full course of vaccination (according to the 0-1-6 month scheme) leads to the formation of specific antibodies against HPV-16 and HPV-18, which were detected in 100% of vaccinated people 18 months after the last dose of the vaccine in age groups from 10 to 25 years.

Antibodies persisted through 4 years of follow-up after the first dose.

A detailed analysis of a 4-year observation of those who received the Cervarix® vaccine in the age groups of adolescent girls and women 10-25 years old showed:

• - 95% effectiveness in preventing infection and persistence of HPV infection;
• - 96% effectiveness against HPV infection detected at the stage of cytological disorders;
• - 100% protection against the development of HPV infection, detected histologically, at the stage of cervical neoplasia of grade 1-2;

The use of the Cervarix® vaccine is also possible in older age groups. Similar studies are being conducted.

Interim results show that the vaccine's effectiveness in age groups under 55 is no worse than in the main group. But at the moment there is not enough data to expand the indications to a group of women over 25 years of age.

The decision to vaccinate women over 25 years of age is made on an individual basis.

Experience with the Cervarix vaccine

To date, the vaccine has been successfully tested (98% of women immunized with it retained antibodies to HPV for more than 7 years), and women are immunized with it in 95 countries. In total, more than 4.3 million doses have already been used.

In Russia, vaccination with Cervarix began in 2008.

The article was prepared by Elena Aleksandrovna Kirichenko, obstetrician-gynecologist of the 1st category.

The human papillomavirus can actually cause the development of cervical cancer. But here one clarification is required - HPV can be of completely different types (there are several dozen of them in total). Only certain ones cause cervical cancer. If we talk about which ones cause cancer, we can list the following types: 16 and 18. These are the most dangerous types, which in total cause the development of cervical cancer in 75% of cases.

If a papilloma has formed on the cervix of the uterus for the first time, then it cannot in any way be malignant - initial neoplasms are always benign, but their presence is a reason for appropriate treatment and prevention.

The cause of the formation of condylomas on the cervix of the uterus is always HPV - no other viral pathology leads to such manifestations. It is impossible to say exactly at what point the virus infection occurred, because after entering a woman’s body, pathogenic microorganisms remain dormant for a long time, choosing the most suitable conditions for further development.

The following factors can provoke the development of pathology and, as a result, the formation of papillomas or condylomas on the cervix:

• Deterioration of the immune system (can occur for various reasons).
• Long-term use of hormonal medications and/or contraceptives.
• Disturbances in the functioning of the neurological system, problems with endocrinology, chronic depression, particular stressful conditions, psycho-emotional changes.
• The presence of chronic diseases of the gastrointestinal tract (especially during their exacerbation).
• The presence of untreated and old sexually transmitted diseases.
• The presence of corresponding neoplasms in the vagina and other intimate areas.

be careful

The presence of papillomas and warts on the body is the first sign of malignant melanoma!

We hasten to warn you that most drugs that “treat” warts and papillomas are a complete deception of marketers who make hundreds of percentage points on drugs whose effectiveness is zero. They do not cure the disease, but only mask the symptoms.

The pharmacy mafia makes huge money by deceiving sick people.

But what to do? How to treat if there is deception everywhere? Doctor of Medical Sciences Anatoly Makhson conducted his own investigation and found a way out of this situation. In this article, the Doctor also told how to 100% protect yourself from melanoma, for only 149 rubles!
Read the article in the official source following the link.

As already noted, the highest risk of cancer and cervical cancer is observed in those women who are infected with human papillomavirus types 16 and 18. There is also a possibility of developing cancer pathology in the presence of other types of viruses. The virus cannot exist outside the host, so infection usually occurs along the “person-to-person” chain.

It is impossible to cure and completely get rid of HPV - there is no such medicine or procedure that could help treat this disease. At the same time, there is a certain probability that self-healing from HPV will occur - this usually happens in the first 2-3 years after infection and only if the person’s immune system is working at the proper level.

Important! The priority in the treatment of HPV is the removal of emerging papillomas and other neoplasms, as well as high-quality antiviral and immunomodulatory therapy.

Papilloma: degeneration into cancer

The likelihood of papilloma degenerating into cancer is relatively low, but thousands of such cases are still recorded every year. To prevent cancer transformation from occurring, it is necessary to promptly remove tumors that appear on the skin and mucous membranes and carry out antiviral therapy. Speaking about whether a simple papilloma can develop into cancer, it is necessary to clarify what type of HPV is diagnosed in a person. Some types of this pathology can cause the development of cancer, while others manifest themselves only as benign neoplasms.

You can find out whether your existing papillomas are degenerating into a cancerous form from a urologist, gynecologist, dermatologist or other specialist (depending on the location of the tumors). For this purpose, the patient is sent for appropriate tests and special examinations are carried out.

Papilloma cannot develop into cancer in a short time - this usually requires time, as well as the presence of certain factors. These factors include:

• Development of the corresponding HPV type in humans.
• Lack of adequate antiviral and immunomodulatory treatment.
• Reluctance to remove existing papillomas.
• Unprofessional removal of papillomas using folk remedies (if unsuccessful, the risks of rapid degeneration of the tumor only increase).
• Poor state of general immunity.

Most often, papillomas, which are located on the cervix and in the mammary glands, degenerate into a cancerous form ().

Typically, the development of papillomas on the cervix and even their gradual transition to a cancerous form cannot cause any symptoms or signs in a woman. How to understand that papilloma has become cancerous? It is necessary to constantly be under the supervision of a gynecologist and undergo appropriate examinations if HPV is diagnosed. The main thing in this case is not to miss the moment, carrying out all the necessary treatment on time.

Important! If, based on the results of the examination, papillomas or condylomas were found on the cervix, they must be immediately removed, which will reduce the risk of developing cancer to a minimum. Cancer develops after removal of papillomas in exceptional cases.

Doctors' opinions on the most effective methods of treating warts and papillomas

The chief physician of Moscow City Hospital No. 62 describes his vision on this matter. Anatoly Nakhimovich Makhson
Medical practice: more than 40 years.

“I have been treating people’s papillomas and warts for many years. I’m telling you as a doctor, papillomas along with HPV and warts can really lead to serious consequences if they are not dealt with.

The human papillomavirus is present in everyone on whose body there are papillomas, moles, warts and other pigmented formations. According to rough estimates, 80-85% of the planet's population has it. By themselves they are not dangerous. The problem is that an ordinary papilloma can become melanoma at any time.

These are incurable malignant tumors that kill a person in just a few months and from which there is no salvation.

Unfortunately, in Russia and the CIS countries, pharmaceutical corporations sell expensive medications that only relieve symptoms, thereby hooking people on one drug or another. That is why in these countries there is such a high percentage of cancer and so many people suffer from "non-working" drugs.

The only drug that I want to recommend, and it is also officially recommended by WHO for the treatment of papillomas and warts, is Papinol. This drug is the only remedy that has an effect not only on external factors (that is, it removes papillomas), but also acts on the virus itself. At the moment, the manufacturer has managed not only to create a highly effective product, but also to make it accessible to everyone. In addition, within the framework of the federal program, every resident of the Russian Federation and the CIS can receive it for 149 rubles.”

Is papilloma on the gum cancer?

If a papilloma appears on the gum, then it is 100% a benign neoplasm that can be treated and completely removed. It is also not a sign of cancer of the larynx, tongue, esophagus or other organs. Such a growth can turn into a cancerous form if adequate antiviral and immunomodulatory therapy is not carried out, and also if a person refuses to remove the papilloma. When a neoplasm develops over a long period of time, there is a possibility that it will soon degenerate into a malignant tumor.

Few people succeed in doing this on the gums - this is absolutely not worth doing. If a person notices that a new growth has appeared on his gum, he should contact a dentist who can prescribe the appropriate treatment and remove the papilloma. If the growth has been developing for more than one year, then it is impossible to say whether the tumor is benign or malignant, because it is impossible to distinguish these two conditions of papilloma only by visual examination.

To clarify the nature of the neoplasm, cytology of a piece of the collected material is performed. If the malignancy of the growth is confirmed, the patient is referred for appropriate treatment to special clinics. If the formation is benign, then the dental surgeon removes it in the most appropriate way.

Stories from our readers

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If there are any unexplained points, then it is worth watching an informative interview with Dr. Komarovsky, where he gives competent comments

The appearance of papillomas on human skin is a sign of at least two problems in the body: weak immunity and the presence of HPV infection (human papillomavirus). However, initially, even such unpleasant neoplasms are considered benign. Malignant growths are extremely rare. But since HPV infection, when activated, promotes rapid cell division, there is a danger of the tumor degenerating into cancer.

The primary cause of growths on the body is the human papillomavirus (HPV). This infection is transmitted through contact and sexual contact. It can easily be infected by using bedding, clothing and hygiene items of a virus carrier.

The infection is quite common. However, human infection does not always occur upon contact with it. In the body of people with strong immunity, the virus does not cause growths and is quickly eliminated. But with regular contact with infection, HPV DNA remains in the cells of the body. There, the virus is in a state of anticipation, and with a significant decrease in immunity, it is instantly activated and provokes the appearance of papillomas.

Pathological formations arise as a result of rapid excessive division of epithelial cells. In this case, the neoplasms look like round or pointed papillae on a stalk with a bumpy, rough surface. The color of soft growths can be either whitish or dark brown.

HPV provokes the appearance of growths of various types, which are classified not only by external data, but also by their oncogenicity. At the time of appearance, all papillomas are benign.

Oncogenic HPV

When studying the problem of the oncogenicity of HPV, 100 types of papillomas were identified, but 80 of them were studied. During these clinical studies, it was revealed that many benign formations on the skin and mucous membranes are susceptible to degeneration into a malignant tumor. In this case, all papillomas, according to the degree of possibility of developing into cancer, are divided into three groups:

• Low risk - type 6, 11, 42, 43, 44. Pointed and flat formations on the cervix, head, as well as growths in the respiratory tract, neck, lungs;
• Medium risk level - type 31, 33, 35, 51, 52, 58. Flat growths in the vulva, on the walls of the cervix, penis, vagina and anal area;
• High risk level – type 16, 18, 36, 45, 56, 66, 70. Most often, growths with such markers form inside and on the surface of the genital organs, in the head, neck, skin and respiratory tract. In more than half of the cases where growths appear in humans, the formations belong to types 16 and 18. They provoke the development of cervical cancer. A high level of risk also belongs to growths of type 36, epidermodysplasia vericiformis. This phenomenon is the formation of a large number of small growths in a person from birth or early age.
• Formations that do not cause cancer are types 1-5, 10, 28 and 49. These are flat warts on the feet, hands and face.

It is possible to determine what type of growth it is only through laboratory PCR analysis.

Causes of rebirth

It is not always that growths with a high level of risk of degeneration into cancer become malignant. To start a carcinogenic process, the following factors must be present in papilloma:

• Mechanical injuries;
• Chemical damage;

• Attachment of infection.

By themselves, benign papillomas do not cause pain, itching, bleeding or inflammation.

Mechanical injuries include any damage to tumors resulting from friction. They can be provoked either by wearing tight clothes or made of hard material, or by sex. As a result, increased cell division of the growth is possible, and the degeneration of papilloma into melanoma.

Chemical damage occurs when working with aggressive substances without using skin protection, or improperly using products to remove growths.

The infection factor usually accompanies chemical or mechanical injuries. An inflammatory process can occur if, at the time of damage to the growth, there was a skin disease in the active phase near it.

Malignancy

Malignancy is the process when cancer cells begin to appear in the papilloma and signs of oncology become noticeable even upon visual examination. However, even with frequent damage to the growth, it does not degenerate instantly. This process usually takes months and sometimes years.

Malignization includes several successive stages:

1. Initiation.
2. Promotion
3. The appearance of cells without antigen receptors.
4. Tumor progression.

At the initiation stage, there are no external symptoms that the papilloma can be malignant. However, the process of degeneration of individual cells of the growth inside it is already beginning. Often at this stage, the development of oncology stops, and the cancer cells die along with some areas of the growth.

During promotion, active growth of cancer cells occurs, which gradually replace healthy tissue. This process often fades and resumes. At this stage, there are no visual signs of cancer, and in rare cases they are mild.

The first two stages of malignancy are easily reversible. At this stage, it is easy to cure a carcinogenic formation. However, to determine the onset of cancer development, regular examinations by a doctor are necessary.

If the transformation process is not stopped, cells without antigen receptors appear in the growth. The human immune system simply does not recognize them, and therefore is not able to attack. At the same time, stem lines of poorly differentiated cells are formed inside the growth, which begin to divide quickly and uncontrollably. At this stage, the malignant papilloma may change visually.

Tumor progression begins when aggressive cells go beyond the boundaries of the papilloma and the cancer spreads to neighboring areas of the body. This stage is characterized by a very high risk of developing metastases.

Symptoms of transformation of benign papilloma

Only an oncologist can reliably check whether papilloma is malignant. At your appointment, he will definitely evaluate the appearance of the growth and, if necessary, perform a tissue biopsy.

But not all people with HPV regularly visit a doctor to prevent the development of melanoma. Therefore, it is extremely important to know the main signs of what malignant papilloma looks like.

Symptoms of a growth transitioning into the category of oncological formations are:

• A change in the color of the formation, as well as the appearance of dotted inclusions on the surface. In this case, the growth can either darken or completely discolor. A striking sign of melanoma is the appearance of different shades on one growth;
• Rapid growth of a long-standing pathological formation;
• The appearance of redness around the growth;
• Painful papilloma and itching;
• A sudden spontaneous violation of the integrity of the papilloma, accompanied by the appearance of discharge of any type and color. Subsequently, a rough, dense crust often forms on the surface of the growth.

The appearance of a large number of papillomas next to an old formation is not a clear sign of cells growing into tumors. However, this phenomenon indicates the activation of the virus in the body. It may also be a sign of a particular type of papilloma being predisposed to cancer.

Treatment

Papillomas that begin to develop into malignant formations must be treated. In this case, therapy mainly consists of removing growths. Drug treatment in combination with chemotherapy is used in the last stages of malignancy. It is relevant when the tumor spreads to neighboring healthy cells and leads to the growth of metastases.

In the initial stages of malignancy, when the papilloma has not had time to degenerate into a tumor, the following hardware methods for removing the growth are used in therapy:

• Cauterization with laser;
• Freezing with liquid nitrogen, or cryodestruction;
• Radio wave surgery;
• Electrocoagulation.

Laser cauterization is performed by exposing a pathological formation to a high-temperature beam. In this case, simultaneously with the removal of the papilloma, tissue disinfection is carried out. During the procedure, the laser cauterizes not only the growth, but also small blood vessels, which ensures the absence of bleeding. The disadvantage of this method is the long period of healing and rehabilitation. However, laser cauterization occurs accurately, painlessly and with minimal risk of complications.

Cryodestruction is most suitable for removing malignant papillomas growing on the cervix, vagina and rectum. The essence of the method is to treat the growths with liquid nitrogen using a special applicator.

Radio wave surgery involves the use of a special ultra-precise device, a radio knife. The device operates accurately and does not affect healthy nearby tissues. The method is one of the most reliable and safe. However, it can be used only in the early stages of malignancy and to remove benign papillomas.

Electrocoagulation involves influencing the formation with alternating current. In this case, it is possible to remove malignant papilloma with any depth of penetration into healthy skin.

After removal of a melanoma or suspicious papilloma, to exclude relapse, the patient needs to be regularly monitored by an oncologist for several years. This will allow timely detection of possible metastases and prevent the processes of malignancy of other papillomas.

Video on topic

Most often, benign growths on the body arise as a result of the rapid spread of the human papillomavirus (hereinafter HPV) in the body, which, according to average data, infects about 70-80% of the population of the entire globe. An exacerbation of the symptoms of infection occurs due to malfunctions of the immune system, which can be provoked by both common colds and stress coupled with chronic fatigue. Do growths on the body develop into cancerous growths? The risk of this is often present. But timely measures aimed at stopping the disease will help prevent the process of malignancy and prevent the appearance of a cancerous tumor.

There are about 150 types of virus, of which only a third have a high oncogenic risk. From the point of view of the degree of likelihood of developing cancer, 3 categories of HPV types are conventionally distinguished (see table).

Most often, cancer is detected in patients infected with types 16 and 18 of the human papillomavirus. The presence of infectious agents of this category in the blood indicates a high risk of developing precancerous conditions, but does not mean a guaranteed occurrence of the disease.

Experts cite cervical cancer as an example, which is found on average in only 1% of women infected with HPV. At the same time, papillomas formed on internal organs often lead to their dysfunction and can cause bleeding and other negative consequences.

Based on their location, such benign neoplasms are divided into 2 groups:

• affecting the mucous membrane of internal organs;
• formed on the skin.

Of the variety of types of papillomas, acuminate (anogenital) and squamous cell papillomas are distinguished as the most prone to the process of malignization.

The former can be described as papillary growths resembling the comb of a rooster. They spread mainly in the area of ​​the urogenital tract, affecting the cervix and anus. In most cases, they occur after transmission of HPV from a carrier during sexual contact and require immediate treatment.

Squamous condensations are distinguished by their cylindrical shape and are associated with mulberries or broccoli florets. They have a villous surface structure and are covered with a rough keratinized crust, which, with a slight mechanical impact, easily comes off from the body of the papilloma. Such a violation of the integrity of the formation leads to an inflammatory reaction and provokes cancer.

Causes of tumors on the body

Papillomas on the body occur during an exacerbation of viral activity, when the body is weakened and needs additional stimulation of the immune system. Direct infection with the virus usually occurs under the following conditions:

1. Sexual relations with a carrier of the disease, against which even barrier-type contraception does not provide complete protection - infection can also occur in the case of oral contact.
2. During autoinoculation (self-infection) due to mechanical trauma to the skin during shaving or epilation.
3. By household contact and through touch - the virus does not die in a humid environment, so it can exist in high concentrations in public places (toilet, swimming pools, baths, gyms, etc.), penetrating the body through scratches and abrasions.
4. Transmission of the virus to newborns can occur from the mother during childbirth, provoking the subsequent development of laryngeal papillomatosis of the larynx in the infant.

Early onset of sexual activity, damage to the mucous membrane after late abortion and other gynecological procedures, sexually transmitted diseases, hormonal imbalance are only a small part of all the factors that contribute to an increase in the viral load on the body.

Diagnosis of HPV as a means of cancer prevention

Timely detection of the human papillomavirus and stopping its activity is an effective and only way to avoid the formation of papillomas and their further mutation into a malignant tumor.

Currently, the nature of formations can be identified and the presence of HPV can be detected as follows:

• clinical examination of the patient;
• colposcopic sample collection;
• cytological analysis of scrapings from the cervix;
• histological examination of tissues;
• PCR tests (for example, Kvant-21 or Digene).

The last 2 methods in the list allow you to identify the type of HPV with maximum accuracy and predict pathological changes in the body that can occur with long-term persistence of the virus due to the lack of necessary treatment.

Complex therapy for detection of HPV

The formation of papillomas and the development of their aggregate into a malignant tumor can be prevented by concentrating all efforts on strengthening the immune system.

A significant effect can be achieved by regular sports and active recreation, which improves not only metabolism, but also physical performance. You will need to exclude fried and smoked foods, high-fat meat-based dishes, and consumption of street fast food from your diet.

The body must receive a sufficient amount of minerals, amino acids and other useful elements every day, which are fully contained in vegetables, dairy products, fruits and fish.

It is important to minimize the number of conflict situations or learn to abstract yourself in a stressful environment - experts say that a person’s psycho-emotional state has no less impact on well-being than an unbalanced diet or lack of mobility.

If anogenital and squamous cell papillomas are detected, they will need to be removed immediately, resorting to hardware procedures, among which the following have proven to be most effective:

1. Electrocoagulation
2. Innovative radio wave method
3. Laser excision
4. Cryodestruction
5. Surgical interventions

Regular health monitoring is a fundamental rule for the rest of your life, which must be strictly observed by all carriers of the papillomavirus.

This is the only way to avoid becoming one of the small percentage of people who get cancer due to neglect of their body.

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Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a common infection with sexual transmission. Most people acquire the virus at a young age, and some become infected several times. Experts have proven that HPV and cervical cancer are interrelated. The insidiousness of the infection lies in the fact that there may be no symptoms and until a certain point the virus does not make itself felt. Sometimes HPV is detected when cervical cancer has already formed.

General information about HPV

Infection occurs during sexual intercourse, and the virus is transmitted not only through penetration, but also through close contact of the genitals. The baby may become infected during childbirth. However, this method of transmission is rare - 1 case in 10 thousand.

About 100 strains of the virus are known, but 60 of them infect the skin and provoke the appearance of growths and warts. The remaining 40 cause the growth of condylomas on the mucous membranes of the genitals, in the anus, in the oral cavity and esophagus. Among them, only 13 types are oncogenic, with viruses 16 and 18 considered the most dangerous because they provoke tumors.

Almost all women with pathological changes in the membranes of the cervical canal are diagnosed with HPV. The connection of papilloma viruses with malignant transformation of the vagina, male penis and anus has also been proven.

Viruses 6 and 11 stimulate the appearance of genital warts on the inner lining of the upper respiratory tract. They cause recurrent juvenile papillomatosis, the pathology leads to laryngeal stenosis and is highly contagious.

Why does cervical cancer develop with HPV?

The infection penetrates the lower layers of the epithelium and does not initially connect with the genetic material of the cell. At this stage, the microorganism can behave calmly and not cause inconvenience, in other cases it provokes the formation of genital warts.

Over time, the virus penetrates the DNA of the cell, then oncogenic strains cause dysplasia of the cervical epithelium, which is considered a precancerous condition. Microorganisms produce special proteins E6 and E7, which reprogram the woman’s epithelial cells. The latter begin to multiply rapidly, which leads to the appearance of cancer.

Symptoms of the disease

Many women, despite being infected with the papilloma virus, do not develop the disease. It takes ten years before certain signs appear.
With an advanced form of the disease, women complain of:

• Pathological discharge from the genital tract with a putrid odor;
• Unpleasant sensations during intimate contact;
• Pain in the lower abdomen, radiating to the sacrum;
• Swelling of the extremities;
• Disturbance of the urinary system;
• Weight loss, unmotivated weakness.

Factors that trigger the transition of HPV to cancer

Despite the high prevalence of infection, tumor processes are diagnosed in a small proportion of women. A strong immune system stops the development of the pathological process for decades. If a woman has an immune deficiency, for example, she is infected with HIV, 5-10 years pass from the moment the virus is introduced to the appearance of the tumor.
Provoking factors:

• It has been proven that genetic predisposition matters: most cases of the disease are hereditary.
• The provoking moment is entering into sexual relations at a young age. During adolescence, the cervix is ​​not fully formed and there are hormonal fluctuations. These girls are more likely than others to get cancer. The use of alcohol, drugs, and nicotine is also important - these are additional factors that provoke cancer.
• The number of infections decreases when using barrier contraceptives, but this method does not guarantee complete safety. Virus particles settle not only in the genital tract, but also on the skin of the perineum.
• Microtrauma to the epithelium opens the way for the introduction of HPV, so a person becomes infected even when using a condom. Taking contraceptive medications, on the contrary, provokes a woman to abandon barrier contraception and thereby increases the risk of infection.

HPV screening for cervical cancer

It is used for early detection of pathology, when a woman is unaware of the disease and does not feel any symptoms. Screening helps to detect early signs of tissue malignancy and provide timely treatment. Timely diagnosis of the disease gives a great chance of full recovery.

Gynecologists always prescribe a PAP test - an examination of a scraping taken from the cervical canal. This is a simple, painless and affordable method that helps detect dysplasia and preinvasive carcinoma. The Pap test is used to identify women at risk for cervical cancer and for follow-up.

In addition to the PAP test, the following screening examinations are used:

• Gynecological examination (manual and speculum);
• blood test for oncogenic strains of the virus.

Vaccination against HPV

Today, a quad vaccine has been developed that protects against 4 strains of the virus (6,11,16 and 18). The most common are virus types 6 and 11, they provoke the appearance of condylomas. Strains 16 and 18 cause tumor processes of the genitals.

Important! Vaccination is not used if the girl is already infected with oncogenic strains. Therefore, it is preferable to get vaccinated before the first sexual intercourse.

WHO recommends vaccinating girls 9-13 years old, but many experts believe that vaccination can be done at a later age.

As for young men, they are also recommended to be vaccinated, since some types of the virus cause penile cancer. There is evidence of a connection between papillomatosis and tumors of the mouth and throat in men.

Vaccination does not replace treatment for diagnosed cancer. Despite vaccination, a woman should undergo screening examinations in the future.

How to prevent HPV infection and its development into cancer?

Prevention begins with educating young people about methods of intimate protection, including explaining to them the harm of early sexual intercourse. They should know that interrupted sexual intercourse does not prevent infection.

Primary prevention is vaccination, which is given to girls of puberty. Other measures are:

• use of barrier contraception;
• circumcision of boys;
• screening after 30 years;
• smoking cessation;
• exclusion of promiscuity.

There is a proven connection between tobacco use and cancer of the reproductive organs. Smoking promotes the introduction of papillomaviruses into tissues and the spread of infection. Nicotine suppresses local immunity, which causes epithelial neoplasia.