Infection with HPV virus in men Human papiloma virus - condiloma acuminata

HPV is the human papilloma virus, being extraordinarily common. Some types of HPV infect the genital and anal skin and are transmitted sexually. Most sexually active people will have HPV at some point in their lives, with most men never knowing they had HPV.

There are over 40 types of HPV and some of them cause the vulgar genital warts. These are considered of low risk because their association to malignant genital or anal cancer is very rare. Those considered of high risk can cause changes in the cells and have potential for neoplasm formation.

HPV is contracted by direct skin-to-skin contact. This can occur through sexual intercourse, vaginal or anal, or simply through genital contact. It can also be transmitted by oral sex, although it is less frequent. When a person has HPV, it is likely that the partner also has the virus, although this may be difficult to prove.

How can one reduce the risk of being infected HPV?

Not having sex is the only way to prevent infection. HPV is so common that even people who have only had one sexual partner in their lives can get the virus. Condom use reduces the risk, however, genital skin not covered by the condom may also be affected.

There is currently a vaccine, Gardasil®, which prevents the onset of condyloma, available for boys and young adults, ages 9-26.

How is it diagnosed?

At present, HPV diagnostic tests are not approved for use in men outside of clinical trials. Researchers are looking for better ways to track men, and the lack of reliable testing for men can be frustrating.

Peniscopy is the most appropriate examination for the identification of condyloma in men.

What is the treatment?

There are several alternatives for the treatment of condyloma, such as the application of trichloroacetic acid, LASER treatments or surgical treatment.