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Sexually transmitted infections

Genital Warts HPV Introduction and Causes STD

Condylomata acuminata are anogenital warts caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV).

HPV is one of the most commonly transmitted STDs in the world. In 90% of women who have cervical HPV infection, the infection becomes undetectable within two years. A few women have persistent infection, which is a key risk factor for cervical cancer. Regular Pap smears and HPV screening can monitor this risk and provide an early warning that treatment is needed. HPV can be transmitted by vaginal, oral and anal sex. Many individuals who have HPV are not aware of the infection and can spread it to their sexual partners.

HPV types 6 and 11 typically cause venereal warts, and along with types 42, 43, and 44 have a low risk of progressing to cancer. HPV types 16, 18, 31, 33, and 36 have a higher risk of progressing to cancer.

These and other types commonly infect the cervix where they can cause either harmless changes or dysplasia which is a precancerous change. High-risk HPV infections of the cervix that last for years can result in cervical cancer. HPV infection of the cervix is found by Pap smear or cervical HPV DNA testing. A Pap test showing dysplasia or intraepithelial neoplasia or cervical cancer almost always is a result of HPV infection.