Viral papillomas - Doctor Elena Martin
 

Viral papillomas

Viral papillomas are benign lesions that appear as a result of infection with the HPV virus.

Strains belonging to the HPV family are linked to an increased risk of the appearance of various forms of cancer (especially in the gynaecological sphere, but also ENT), however, it is important to emphasise that not all strains of this virus can induce the appearance of neoplasia. It is also the case of strains involved in the appearance of papillomas and warts.

Once infected with a strain with skin tropism, the virus remains in latent form at the level of keratinocytes, that is, at the level of the skin. In certain situations, when the favourable conditions for development are met, the virus strain is reactivated and will lead to the formation of lesions. They represent viral reservoirs and autoinoculation is frequent.

How is HPV transmitted?

Infection with the HPV virus is included in the category of sexually transmitted diseases, but what is important to mention is the fact that condoms don’t stop the transmission of the virus.

Skin-to-skin contact can facilitate infectious transmission, also this virus can be transmitted from mother to child during birth.

How is HPV infection treated?

Unfortunately, once contacted, the virus remains confined to the body in a latent state, and can be reactivated in various situations (stressful periods, low immunity).

The most effective method of preventing the spread of this virus is the anti-HPV vaccination.

Another method of prevention is the removal of skin or mucous membrane lesions, which represent viral reservoirs, thus eliminating the risk of self-inoculation or transmission to other people.

What do viral papillomas look like?

These are pedunculated, skin-coloured lesions, located on the neck, eyelids, armpit, groyne, and in women in the submammary region. These are usually asymptomatic or may be accompanied by itching. They may regress spontaneously or can cause discomfort because they are frequently traumatised and may bleed.

How do we eliminate these lesions?

Papillomas can be removed under local anaesthesia either by means of the CO2 laser or by radiofrequency. In their place some superficial burns will remain that will heal in 5-7 days.

It should be mentioned that this treatment will not lead to the elimination of the virus from the body, it will still remain confined to the level of keratinocytes and can be reactivated, during life, in certain situations: stress, low immunity, pregnancy, excessive exposure to the sun, etc.

The appearance of lesions in the genital area must be followed by genotyping (the method of identifying the viral strains present), thus orienting the therapeutic strategy.

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