Human Papillomavirus In today's society we have more to worry about than money, war, and relationships. The human race has a battle to fight together. This is a battle of disease. Of these diseases, the Human Papillomavirus is now named one of the most common causes of sexually transmitted diseases in the world. With 100 or more strains of the papillomavirus, an estimated 30 are responsible for genital infections. There are approximately 5.5 million HPV sexually transmitted infections every year with at least 20 million Americans already infected. Papillomas, or benign tumors, cause warts most occurant on the hands, feet, and genital areas. Since the human papillomavirus is best known for its role with sexually transmitted diseases, we will concentrate on this specific disease.
Papillomaviruses are members of the papovaviridae family of DNA viruses, all of which are considered tumor viruses because of their ability to immortalize normal cells. They are species-specific and occur in a wide variety of vertebrates, where they cause benign and malignant epithelial proliferations. The most specifically discussed HPV is technically known as condylomata acuminatum, genital warts. As the most easily recognized sign of a genital human papillomavirus infection, these warts are extremely contagious and are contracted through oral, anal, or genital sex with someone already infected. Moist, warm conditions are ideal for this virus to manifest.
Statistics state that two-thirds of humans who come in sexual contact with one already infected will develop warts. This virus has a stationary period lasting from 3 months to years upon contact, so it is easily said that one may go a while without even knowing they are infected. HPV usually causes the most destruction to its female human hosts. It attacks and infects the squalors epithelium of the skin by causing warts on the inside and outside of the vagina, on the cervix, uterus, or around the anus. There is also the possibility of newborns contracting the virus through the birth canal. This can be life threatening to the child due to airway obstruction. The virus could also pose a life-long struggle for children with laryngeal papillomas. In men, the virus is not as easily detected. Genital warts can develop around the head or base of the penis, and on the anus. These cauliflower like warts may appear singley or in clusters, and can be very small or spread in masses around the genital area. It is important to note that HPVs can also cause flat, abnormal growths and not just obvious wart appearances. The warts themselves can disappear without treatment, however the virus itself lives on and has been linked to cervical, vulvar, and anal cancer.
The human papillomavirus is incurable. Pap smear tests are performed during a gynecologic exam to detect abnormal cervical cells and doctors can visually examine one who may have the virus. Other diagnostic factors include a DNA probe, hyperkeratosis, and examining koilocytotic cells.
The available medical treatments one may receive for the infection would include laser surgery, conventional surgery, as well as cryosurgery (freezing off tissue). There are also powerful chemicals and creams that may be used externally. Podophyllin, trichloroacetic acid, and bichloroacetic acid are three of these chemicals. Imiquimod cream, fluorouracil cream and interferon alpha work to stimulate the immune system to battle the virus.
Virulence factors consist of the E6 and E7 proteins, which are inhibitors of tumor suppressor genes. Eighty-five percent of cervical carcinomas related to papilloma viruses contain HPV DNA. Any disease progression or site of infection is dependent on the type of virus.
Means of prevention are up to each individual. Our school system begins teaching us about sexually transmitted diseases at a very young age and we are stressed to stay abstinent until we are married and then to stay faithful. Unfortunately young people have changed their outlook on sexual relations and this virus is just one of many consequences. To prevent this sexually transmitted human papillomavirus, safe sex is definite. Condoms are always recommended but they do not assure complete protection, they only work to slow the rate of transmission. Anyone who wishes to engage in sexual contact must get checked yearly and keep up healthy hygiene.
Scientists are researching the development of two types of vaccines. The first type of vaccine would be used to prevent disease or infection, while the second would be used to treat cervical cancers. MediGene AG of Munich has begun to develop and commercialize a viral vaccine. This vaccine is being designed specifically for precancerous lesions of the cervix, which is caused by the human papillomavirus.
In conclusion, the human papillomavirus is the cause of infectious disease unescapable by anyone. Unseen by the naked eye this disease may cause serious complications, even death and research done to regulate it is much needed. The $55 million spent annually to fund scientist in making a vaccine is essential.
References:
1. Human Papillomavirus and Genital Warts, March 2001, http://www.niaid.nih.gov.factsheet/stdhpv/htm 4/27/02
2. Human Papillomavirus and Cancer, January 08, 2001, http://cis.nci.nih.gov/fact/3_20.htm 4/27/02
3. Planned Parenthood Genital Warts (HPV), 00, http://www.ppeurka.com/Genital%20Warts.htm 4/29/02
4. Papilloma Virus (HPV), May 11, 1999, http://www.medinfo.ufl.edu/year2/mmid/bms5300/bugs/hpv.html 4/29/02
5. Genital HPV Infection, May 2001, http://www.cdc.gov/nchstp/dstd/Fact_Sheets/FactsHPV.htm 4/29/02
6. Papilloma Vaccine to be Developed, April 2000, http://www.findarticles.com/cf_dls/m0DED/9_20/61859176/p1/article.jhtml 4/29/02