Papilloma in men

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is transmitted through contact and/or sexual contact. HPV has been known for more than 70 years. In 1935, the ability of this group of viruses to cause the development of papillomas and skin cancer in rabbits was demonstrated. Since then, the ability of HPV to cause cancer in mammals (including humans) has not been in doubt, but for some reason only now have they started to scare us about this disease and its consequences. While in the human body, different types of HPV manifest in different ways. But the unifying property of these viruses is their ability to cause the appearance of papillomas (warts) of different shapes.

Papillomas develop at the site of primary contact in approximately 1-3% of those infected with HPV. Papilloma is considered by doctors to be a benign tumor and does not pose a significant threat. Although any change in normal cell growth in the form of a tumor or spot should alert both the patient and the doctor. In some cases, HPV manifests exclusively as a dermatological disease with contact-household transmission. HPV can also occur as a venereal disease, causing genital forms of genital papillomas. Because cases of cancer are extremely rare with cutaneous forms of HPV, we will pay more attention to genital forms of HPV, in which cancer occurs much more often. Genital forms of HPV are caused by about 40 of the 130 known types of the virus. It is estimated that up to 70% of the sexually active adult population will be infected with genital forms of HPV at some point in their lives.

Naturally, sexual activity does not mean "obsolete" monogamous relationships. Indeed, provided that both partners have never had other sexual contacts, the probability of having genital forms of HPV is almost zero. With each new partner, the risk of infection increases significantly. In addition, it is possible to be infected with several types of HPV at once, not to mention other sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). Unlike most other infections, where the main factor of transmission is body fluids, contact with the skin and mucous membranes isenough to transmit HPV. And if in the case of typical sexually transmitted diseases, the use of a condom is a relatively reliable means, then with regard to HPV, such as genital herpes, its effectiveness is quite questionable.

Papillomas in men

Papilloma in men is a clinical manifestation of infection of the patient with the human papillomavirus. It must be said that the virus is quite common, but it has the ability to remain in the human body for a long time, practically not manifesting itself externally. Under the influence of predisposing factors, the human papilloma virus is activated, which leads to the formation of various neoplasms on the skin and mucous membranes. Some types of viruses are characterized by oncogenic activity, so any neoplasms on the skin and mucous membranes should be treated extremely carefully, under the supervision of a doctor.

Papillomas in men: causes of occurrence

The cause of the appearance of papillomas on the body in men and women is a virus that can enter the body in different ways:

• Due to unprotected sexual contact: the most common type of infection, including because a person can be a carrier of the virus for a long time without even knowing it, since the virus has the ability to manifest itself only under the influence of external factors. Transmission is also possible through direct contact of mucous membranes. In this case, the risk of infection increases if the skin or mucous membranes are damaged (there are cracks, scratches, cuts, etc. ). Due to the prevalence of this causative agent, it is understandable that quite often papillomas (condylomas) in men and women appear in the intimate area, in the places of contact, from which the risk of infection in men is usually higher, due to their greatersexual activity, but women's mucous membranes are less protected.
• Through domestic contact: it has already been proven that the HPV virus can enter the human body through simple contact (even shaking hands), especially in public places (bathrooms, swimming pools, gyms, etc. ).

It is also necessary to remember that infection with the specified virus does not mean its manifestation.Most often, the disease is activated and felt if:

• the patient's immunity is weakened;
• there was strong physical or mental stress, stress, exhaustion;
• There are different types of sexually transmitted diseases.

Characteristics of the course of human papillomavirus infection in men

Under natural conditions, most viruses are low pathogenic due to low infectivity and host resistance to infection. Once inside a human cell, the DNA virus most often does not integrate into the cell genome. Instead, a protein (or group of proteins) encoded by the viral genome rapidly activates the cell's DNA replication system. If the virus replicates synchronously with the cell without damaging it, a non-productive type of infection develops, otherwise this process is called persistence or asymptomatic carriage.

If the virus multiplies rapidly in a cell, the process is called asymptomatic carriage, or it releases thousands of active virus particles. This period is characterized by the appearance of rounded formations and growths on the skin and mucous membranes. However, HPV types 16 and 18 can integrate into the cellular genome without hijacking cellular genes. This phenomenon is called "insertional mutagenesis" and the altered gene is inherited by all descendants of a given cell. As a result, oncogenes are activated and a tumor appears. In this way, these cells are inherited by all descendants from the moment of fetal formation, during the pregnancy of the woman and the birth of the child.

Major factors of infection

• multiple sexual partners;
• use of birth control pills;
• smoking;
• insufficiency of cellular immunity (anemia, pathology of the thyroid gland, presence of chronic foci of coccal infection - tonsillitis, sinusitis, caries);
• artificial restriction of diet, weight loss.

With a good immune status, in 50% of cases of HPV infection, the virus is cleared from the woman's body within one year, and in 85% of cases - within 4 years. This is why the number of women infected with HPV decreases with age. The development of cancer in men and women is closely related to infection with the human papillomavirus. Genital warts, papillomas on the body, warts and flat warts were found in the study of men and women infected with human papilloma virus infection.

HPV in men: implications

The virus can cause condylomas, or genital warts, which, as the name suggests, are found in the groin, as well as on the head of the penis and the foreskin. This type of warts has very dangerous consequences for men and requires treatment. Penile warts can cause the foreskin to narrow, making it difficult to expose the head of the penis and causing problems in your private life. It should also be remembered that in some cases such formations are not an indicator of HPV, but of other sexually transmitted diseases that have not yet manifested themselves (for example, syphilis). Another danger of HPV is that a carrier of the virus can pass it on to their partner, which also puts them at risk of developing cancer. Transmission of the virus is also possible to the fetus from an infected mother, so couples who wish to have children should pay special attention to HPV and other diseases of this type.

HPV in men: symptoms

Most often, HPV can be present in the human body for a long time without showing itself. However, the most important sign (symptom) of the possible presence of HPV in men and women is the appearance on the skin and mucous membranes, including in the groin or pubic area, of condylomas and papillomas - warts, lumps and bumps on the skin, the color of which is notdiffers from the underlying skin.Condylomas- This is a genital type of papilloma, which looks like a small growth attached to the mucous membrane with something like a "leg". The size of condylomas can vary from a few millimeters to several centimeters - in the second case, we are talking about an accumulation of condylomas. Such papillomas can beappear on the head of the penis, on the foreskin and also around the anus (then there is a high probability that condylomas are also in the rectum). Most often they are painless, but in some cases men may experience additional symptoms of the human papillomavirus ifthe disease manifested itself as:

• pain during urination, defecation or intercourse;
• bleeding from condylomas: sometimes ulcers can form in their place, which are not treated for a long time;
• also sometimes warts can itch.

The listed symptoms usually indicate damage to the condyloma.

Treatment of HPV in men

Initial review

The appearance of papillomas, in addition to the presence of HPV in the human body, also indicates a weakened immune system and the possible presence of other sexually transmitted diseases. In addition, some types of papillomas, in particular condylomas on the head of the penis, have a high oncological potential, so at the first signs of the disease, you should consult a specialist. The sooner you start treating the human papillomavirus, the more chances a person has to avoid serious health consequences from warts. (All of the above also applies to women. )

Initial appointment

The initial meeting with a specialist includes a thorough visual examination of the patient's mucous membranes and skin, as well as questioning and prescribing tests. Although most often papillomas have a characteristic appearance, additional tests and diagnostics make it possible to absolutely accurately determine the presence of HPV in the patient's body. If HPV infection is suspected in men, the following tests are usually prescribed::

• blood test (for condylomas, also analysis of urethral discharge): modern diagnostic methods make it possible to isolate the DNA of the virus from the available material and thus confirm its presence in the patient's body;
• biopsy of papillomas (condylomas): done to determine the presence or absence of cancer cells in the tumors.

Additional treatment regimen

Treatment of human papillomavirus in men is largely determined by the presence or absence of genital warts. Like the herpes virus, it is almost impossible to completely get rid of HPV, so therapeutic effects and surgical intervention are usually aimed at eliminating its manifestations and increasing the period of remission. Removal of papillomas for HPV is not indicated in all cases. If the papilloma does not pose a threat and does not interfere with the patient, then at his request it may not be removed, but then he will have to undergo regular preventive examinations. Removal is a mandatory treatment for genital warts in men due to their particular location.

The disposal methods are different and are chosen individually, including depending on the location of the tumors. In addition to the removal of tumors, the treatment of condylomas in men includes the use of drugs that help strengthen the immune system so that the body can fight the virus and suppress it, thus suppressing its manifestations. Depending on the method chosen to remove condylomas, the patient may also be prescribed anti-inflammatory drugs.By the way, no technique can completely rid a person of an infection: the disease is only "silenced". The therapy is combined and includes the removal of growths from the skin and the use of medication. The duration depends on the affected area.All skin tumors are removed in several ways:

• use of cryodestruction (liquid nitrogen);
• diathermocoagulation (high-frequency current);
• electrocoagulation (burning with electric current);
• laser;
• chemical or surgical method, etc.

In addition to local treatment, various antiviral drugs are used.The main interferon preparations are:

• In addition to local treatment, various antiviral drugs are used: human interferon;
• Viferon;
• Cycloferon;
• reaferon;
• leukinferon, etc.

Interferonis a substance that the human immune system produces to protect itself from viruses. Thanks to modern scientific achievements in the field of genetic engineering, interferon-based drugs are obtained by synthesis. This allows you to get a cleaner drug (without impurities) and less allergenic. Interferons are absorbed into the blood and have a systemic effect on the whole body. However, there are cases when interferon treatment provokes allergic reactions. In this regard, these drugs are discontinued and the doctor develops another course of treatment.

Food supplement(food supplement) to food that contains indole-3-carbinol - a natural substance present in broccoli - the latest discovery of science. This chemical compound has a strong anti-carcinogenic effect (prevents malignant formations in the intestines, lungs, etc. ). It should be noted that indole-3-carbinol is found in most varieties of cabbage. The use of indinol has been found to increase the effectiveness of interferon treatment. However, this drug is still being tested and its effect on the body is subject to detailed study. The doctor can prescribe non-specific immunomodulators.

It is important to remember that the functioning of the immune system is not fully understood, since its state changes depending on each intervention: whether it is therapeutic or microbial. For this reason, immunomodulators should not be prescribed arbitrarily. It should be remembered that antiviral drugs such as the antiviral drug, which is particularly effective against the viruses of herpes simplex, herpes zoster (herpes zoster) and chicken pox, have no effect in the treatment of PVI. Therefore, their use is impractical.

During treatment, the patient may also be counseled:

• refrain from sexual intercourse, especially unprotected, to prevent the virus from entering the partner's body;
• Strengthen your immune system yourself with diet and moderate physical activity.

Treatment result:It should be remembered that the process of HPV treatment, its time and effectiveness largely depend on the general condition of the patient's body, concomitant diseases, as well as the development of possible complications of this disease (oncological in the first place).

Complications

The presence of papillomas and condylomas is a cosmetic defect. Growths located in the genital area negatively affect a man's mental and sexual health and lead to difficulties in communicating with the opposite sex. In addition, such a man is a source of infection for his sexual partners. With reduced immunity, warts can grow quickly, occupying a significant area. When the rectum is involved in the process, there is a feeling of a foreign body in the rectum, anal fissures and other proctological problems can develop. The spread of growths in the urethral area leads to the development of urological pathology. When the formations are injured, hemorrhage develops. When an infection occurs, inflammation and suppuration begin, which are accompanied by pain, fever, weakness and worsening of the general condition.

Prevention

The complexity of HPV treatment, as well as the serious health problems that this virus can cause, determine the importance of preventive measures, which include:

• ordered sexual contact with a trusted partner and use of barrier contraceptive measures. At the same time, modern research shows that only high-quality contraceptives can significantly reduce the risk of HPV infection for both partners;
• strengthening the immune system: diet, vitamin intake, etc. ;
• use of a special vaccine: the course of taking drugs for the human papillomavirus in men is three injections into the brachial muscle and can minimize the risk of this disease. The injection should be given after prior consultation with a specialist (this prevention is only possible for those not infected with HPV);
• preventive visits to a urologist to check the presence of sexually transmitted diseases and other possible problems with the genitourinary system, taking tests to identify the virus.

When characteristic formations are detected in the intimate area, as well as on other parts of the body, skin and mucous membranes, it is necessary to seek help from a specialist as soon as possible. This way you will avoid complications and other unwanted consequences for men's health. In these cases, it is strongly not recommended to treat yourself, since only a specialist can diagnose and correctly prescribe treatment for condylomas in men.

FAQ

What symptoms can papilloma cause in men?

Papilloma in men can appear as small warts or flat warts on or near the skin of the genitals, anus. You may also experience itching, discomfort, or mild pain in the affected area.

How is papilloma transmitted in men?

Papilloma in men is transmitted through contact with infected skin or mucous membrane of the genital organs. It can be transmitted sexually, as well as by direct contact with the affected area.

How can you prevent papilloma infection in men?

To prevent papilloma infection in men, it is recommended to use a condom during intercourse. Vaccination against human papillomavirus (HPV) can also reduce the risk of infection. Regular visits to your doctor and tests will also help identify the infection in its early stages and prevent it from spreading.

Useful tips

Tip #1

Contact a dermatovenerologist for professional advice and diagnosis. Only an experienced specialist will be able to accurately determine whether the papilloma is dangerous and whether it requires removal.

Tip #2

Avoid injury to the papilloma. Do not try to remove it yourself, as this can lead to infection and complications. If the papilloma is in an area of friction or injury (such as the neck or armpit), try using a soft bandage or tape to prevent damage.

Tip #3

Follow the rules of hygiene. Wash and dry the area around the papilloma regularly to prevent the development of bacteria and infection. Avoid sharing hygiene items (such as towels or razors) with other people to avoid spreading infection.