HPV Infection

Diagnosis

A healthcare professional can often diagnose HPV infection simply by examining visible warts. When genital warts are not visible, several diagnostic tests may be used to identify the infection and assess any related changes in the affected tissues.

• Vinegar (acetic acid) solution test: A vinegar solution applied to the genital area can turn HPV-infected regions white, helping to reveal flat or less noticeable lesions.

• Pap smear: In this test, a sample of cells from the cervix or vagina is examined in a lab to detect cellular changes that could lead to cervical cancer.

• DNA test: This test identifies the DNA of high-risk HPV types that are linked to cervical cancer. It is generally recommended for women aged 30 and older and is often done alongside a Pap test.

These diagnostic methods help detect HPV-related changes early, allowing for timely treatment and monitoring.

Treatment

There is no cure for HPV, but treatment can help remove visible warts and manage symptoms. In many cases, warts go away on their own, especially in children. However, since the virus remains in the body, warts can reappear in the same or different locations.

Medicines

Medications are typically applied directly to the affected skin and may require multiple treatments before the warts disappear. Common treatment options include:

• Salicylic acid: Available over the counter, this treatment works by gradually removing layers of a wart. It is not suitable for use on the face and can sometimes cause skin irritation.

• Imiquimod (Zyclara): A prescription cream that stimulates the immune system to fight HPV. It may cause mild swelling or irritation at the application site.

• Podofilox (Condylox): A prescription topical treatment that destroys genital wart tissue. It can cause burning or itching where it’s applied.

• Trichloroacetic acid: A chemical applied by a healthcare provider to burn off warts on the hands, feet, or genital areas. Some irritation or discomfort is common after use.

Surgical and other procedures

If topical medications are not effective, several medical procedures can remove warts more directly:

• Freezing with liquid nitrogen (cryotherapy)

• Burning with an electrical current (electrocautery)

• Surgical removal of warts

• Laser surgery for deeper or widespread lesions

These procedures are usually done in a clinical setting and may require local anesthesia.

Treatment for HPV in the cervix

When HPV affects the cervix, a diagnostic and treatment procedure called colposcopy may be used. During a colposcopy, a healthcare professional examines the cervix using a special magnifying device called a colposcope and may take tissue samples (biopsies) from abnormal areas.

If precancerous lesions are detected, they must be removed to prevent progression to cervical cancer. Treatment options include:

• Freezing (cryosurgery)

• Laser surgery to remove abnormal tissue

• Loop electrosurgical excision procedure (LEEP), which uses a thin, electrically charged wire loop to remove affected tissue

• Cold knife conization, a surgical method that removes a cone-shaped piece of the cervix

Early detection and proper management of HPV infections, especially those involving the cervix, can significantly reduce the risk of cervical cancer and other complications.