Which type of genital wart is dangerous and causes cancer?

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a sexually transmitted infection that is increasing every year in different communities, including Iran. In Iran, we do not have exact statistics on the incidence of HPV, but some studies have shown that the average incidence of this virus in our country is higher than the average in the Middle East and the world. Of course, the prevalence rate is high in other countries as well; It is estimated that about 80 million Americans are currently affected by the disease. You may be interested to know that there are more than 100 different types of HPV, some of which are dangerous and some of which are low-risk. In this article we will talk to you about dangerous genital warts.

Types of genital warts

We suggest that if you have symptoms of genital warts or suspect that you have HPV, be sure to see a specialist for further examination. By identifying the exact type, the doctor can determine the exact steps of treatment. Some types of HPV go away on their own without the need for special treatment; While others are dangerous and may even lead to cancer. Here are some common types of genital warts:

Low-risk HPV types

HPV 6 and HPV 11 are low risk types of genital warts. About 90% of genital warts fall into these two types and genital warts are not dangerous. However, HPV 11 can cause changes in the cervix. Genital warts appear in the form of cauliflower-like bumps on the genital area and usually appear when a person had sex with their sexual partner who was infected with the virus a few weeks or months ago. The HPV vaccine can help prevent HPV 6 and provide some protection against HPV 11. Treatment of genital warts depends entirely on the type.

Clinical trials have shown that the Garadsil vaccine provides 89 to 99 percent protection against these two low-risk types of genital warts. Non-100% protection of this vaccine was mostly seen in the age group of 9 to 26 years. It is recommended that the genital wart vaccine be given before sexual activity at an early age because the vaccine cannot also protect against genital warts that a person has previously had. If you have HPV 6 or HPV 11, your doctor may prescribe medications such as genital wart pills or ointments such as aldara or podophyllotoxin, which are topical medications that help relieve genital warts.

In general, there are 12 types of low-risk genital warts, which include types 6, 11, 40, 42, 43, 44, 53, 54, 61, 72, 73 and 81. Although these types of genital warts are considered low-risk, they can cause changes in the cervix.

Types of dangerous genital warts

Types 16, 18, 31, 33, 35, 39, 45, 51, 52, 56, 58, 59, 68 and 69 are in the high-risk group of genital warts. Types of genital warts that can lead to cancer are generally called high-risk. HPV 16 is the most common type of high-risk HPV that usually has no significant symptoms; Even if it causes changes in the cervix. About 50% of cervical cancers are related to this type of genital wart.

Another high-risk type of genital wart is HPV 18, which, like HPV 16, generally does not cause any symptoms. 70% of cervical cancers can be related to this type of genital warts. Garadsil vaccine can protect against a number of types of genital warts, including types 16 and 18. It is also good to know the ways of transmitting genital warts to better prevent it.

How do we know we have dangerous genital warts?

HPV can be detected by Pap smear test in women. This test is usually used to diagnose cervical cancer. The HPV test is only available to women, and if a person has the genital wart virus, it can be determined whether genital warts are dangerous or low-risk. HPV testing is not recommended as a routine screening for women under the age of 30 because by this age most women will develop some form of HPV that does not require special treatment and resolves on its own.

If a Pap smear shows that you have HPV, it does not mean that you have cervical cancer, but it is more likely that you will develop cervical cancer if left untreated.

Diagnosis of HPV in men

Genital warts can be dangerous for both men and women. There is no test for men to diagnose HPV, which can lead to cancer. Of course, there is a type of anal test in which a doctor separates cells from around the anus and examines them in a laboratory. In many cases, depending on the symptoms, it should be determined whether genital warts are dangerous or low-risk.

HPV disappears in 80 to 90% of people without the need for treatment.

Symptoms of genital warts

Unfortunately, most genital warts have no symptoms unless they appear on the skin. In men, abnormal bumps on the anus, penis, or testicles may be seen in men. In women, these bumps may also be seen around the vagina or anus. Genital warts can be small, large, flat or cauliflower-like. If you leave the treatment behind, the condition will get worse and the number of warts will increase.

Tips for preventing HPV or genital warts

The best way to prevent dangerous genital warts, as well as other types, is to get the Gardasil vaccine. In adults over 15 years of age, the vaccine should be given three times over a period of six months. If you notice genital warts, you should avoid having sex with your sexual partner.

It is best to use a condom during sex, but be aware that HPV is transmitted through skin-to-skin contact, not through secretions or body fluids. Condoms can only reduce the risk of people getting HPV. If you are a woman, get a Pap smear every year from the age of 21 onwards to take the necessary treatment if you have HPV.

Which type of HPV is dangerous?

As mentioned, HPV 16 and HPV 18 are dangerous types of genital warts that can lead to cervical cancer or other cancers related to the genital area. Treatment of genital warts should be done according to its type. So if you see any suspicious symptoms related to this disease, see a doctor immediately and be treated.