Papilloma in men

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is spread 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 papilloma and skin cancer in rabbits was demonstrated. Since then, the ability of HPV to cause cancer in mammals (including humans) has not been doubted, but for some reason only now they start to scare us about this disease and its consequences. While in the human body, different types of HPV manifest themselves in different ways. But the unifying feature of these viruses is their ability to cause the appearance of papillomas (warts) in various forms.

Papillomas develop at primary contact sites in approximately 1-3% of those infected with HPV. Papilloma is considered by doctors as a benign tumor and does not pose a significant threat. Although any changes in the growth of normal cells in the form of tumors or spots should alert both the patient and the doctor. In some cases, HPV manifests itself exclusively as a dermatological disease with home-contact transmission. HPV can also occur as a sexually transmitted disease, causing genital papillomas with sexual transmission. Since cancer cases are very rare in the skin form of HPV, we will pay more attention to the genital form of HPV, where cancer occurs more often. The genital form of HPV is caused by about 40 of the 130 known types of virus. It is estimated that up to 70% of the sexually active adult population will be infected with the genital form of HPV at some point in their lives.

Naturally, sexual activity does not mean that monogamous relationships are "outdated". Naturally, provided that both partners have never had other sexual relations, the probability of having the genital form of HPV is almost zero. With each new partner, the risk of infection increases significantly. In addition, infection may occur 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, skin and mucous membrane contact is sufficient for HPV transmission. And if in the case of common STDs, the use of condoms is a relatively reliable remedy, then in relation to HPV, for example, genital herpes, its effectiveness is somewhat doubtful.

Papilloma in men

Papilloma in men is a clinical manifestation of a patient's infection 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 papillomavirus is activated, resulting in the formation of various skin and mucous membrane neoplasms. Some types of viruses are characterized by oncogenic activity, so any neoplasm on the skin and mucous membranes should be treated very carefully, under the supervision of a doctor.

Papilloma 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 various ways:

• Caused by unprotected sexual intercourse: the most common type of infection, including because a person can be a carrier of the virus for a long time, without knowing it, because the virus has the ability to manifest itself only under the influence of external factors. Transmission is also possible through direct contact with mucous membranes. In this case, the risk of infection increases if the skin or mucous membrane is damaged (there are cracks, scratches, wounds, etc. ). Due to the prevalence of the cause of this infection, it is understandable that papillomas (condylomas) in men and women often appear in the intimate area, at the point of contact, where the risk of infection in men is usually higher, due to them. greater sexual activity, but women's mucous membranes are less protected.
• Through household contact: it has now been proven that the HPV virus can enter the human body through normal contact (even shaking hands), especially in public places (showers, swimming pools, gyms, etc. ).

It should also be remembered that infection with a specified virus does not mean its manifestation.Often, the disease becomes active and makes itself felt if:

• the patient's immunity is weak;
• there is great physical or mental stress, stress, fatigue;
• There are many types of sexually transmitted diseases.

Characteristics of the course of human papillomavirus infection in men

Under natural conditions, most viruses are low pathogens due to their low infectivity and host resistance to infection. After penetrating human cells, DNA viruses often do not integrate into the cellular 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 simultaneously with the cell without damaging it, a non-productive type of infection develops, otherwise, this process is called persistence or asymptomatic transport.

If the virus multiplies rapidly in the cell, the process is called asymptomatic transport, or the release of thousands of active virus particles. This period is characterized by the appearance of round formations and growths on the skin and mucous membranes. However, HPV types 16 and 18 can integrate into the cell's genome without hijacking cellular genes. This phenomenon is called "insertional mutagenesis, " and the altered gene is inherited by all lineages of a particular cell. As a result, oncogenes are activated and tumors appear. Therefore, these cells are inherited by all descendants from the moment the fetus is formed, during the pregnancy of the woman and the birth of the child.

The main factor of infection

• multiple sexual partners;
• use of contraceptive pills;
• smoking;
• lack of cellular immunity (anemia, pathology of the thyroid gland, the presence of chronic foci of coccal infection - tonsillitis, sinusitis, caries);
• artificial diet restrictions, 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 human papillomavirus infection. As a result of the study of men and women infected with human papillomavirus infection, genital warts, body papillomas, warts, and flat warts were found.

HPV in men: consequences

This virus can cause condylomas, or genital warts, which, as the name suggests, are located in the groin, as well as on the head of the penis and foreskin. This type of condyloma has very dangerous consequences for men and requires treatment. Condylomas on the penis can cause narrowing of the foreskin, which can make it difficult to expose the head of the penis and lead to problems in your personal life. It should also be remembered that in some cases such a formation is not an indicator of HPV, but of another sexually transmitted disease that has not yet manifested itself (for example, syphilis). Another danger of HPV is that carriers of the virus can pass it on to their partners, also putting them at risk of cancer. Virus transmission is also possible to the fetus from an infected mother, so couples who want to have children should pay special attention to HPV and other diseases like this.

HPV in men: symptoms

Often, HPV can be present in the human body for a long time without manifesting itself. However, the most important signs (symptoms) of the possible presence of HPV in men and women are the appearance on the skin and mucous membranes, including in the groin or genital area, condylomas and papillomas - warts, lumps and skin irregularities. , a color that does not differ from the main skin.Condyloma- This is a type of genital papilloma, which looks like a small growth attached to the mucous membrane with a kind of "leg". The size of a condyloma can vary from a few millimeters to a few centimeters - in the second case we are talking about an accumulation of condylomas. Such papillomas can appear on the head of the penis, on the foreskin, and even around the anus (then there is a high probability that condylomas may also be in the rectum). Often they are painless, but in some cases men may experience additional symptoms of human papillomavirus if the disease manifests itself as:

• pain when urinating, defecating, or having sex;
• condyloma bleeding: sometimes an ulcer that does not heal for a long time can form in its place;
• also sometimes condyloma can itch.

The listed symptoms usually indicate damage to the condyloma.

HPV treatment in men

Preliminary examination

The appearance of papillomas, in addition to the presence of HPV in the human body, also indicates a reduced immune system and the possible presence of other sexually transmitted diseases. In addition, some types of papilloma, in particular condyloma on the head of the penis, have a high oncological potential, so when the signs of the disease are first detected, you should consult a specialist. The sooner you start treating human papillomavirus, the more men have a chance to avoid serious health consequences due to condyloma. (All of the above applies to women as well. )

Early appointment

An initial appointment with a specialist involves a thorough visual examination of the patient's mucous membranes and skin, as well as questioning him and prescribing tests. Although most often papillomas have a characteristic appearance, additional tests and diagnostics make it possible to 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 condyloma, also analysis of urethral discharge): modern diagnostic methods make it possible to isolate viral DNA from the available material and thus confirm its presence in the patient's body;
• papilloma (condyloma) biopsy: performed to determine the presence or absence of cancer cells in the tumor.

Further 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 get rid of HPV completely, so therapeutic effects and surgical interventions are usually aimed at eliminating its manifestations and increasing the period of remission. Papilloma removal for HPV is not indicated in all cases. If the papilloma does not pose a threat and does not bother 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 special location.

The method of disposal is different and is chosen individually, including depending on the location of the tumor. In addition to removing the tumor, the treatment of condyloma in men involves the use of drugs that help strengthen the immune system so that the body can fight the virus and suppress it, thereby suppressing its manifestation. Depending on the method chosen to remove the condyloma, the patient may also be prescribed anti-inflammatory drugs.By the way, there is not a single technique that can completely eliminate the infection: the disease is only "muted". Therapy is combined and includes the removal of tumors from the skin and the use of medications. Duration depends on the affected area.All skin tumors are removed in several ways:

• using cryodestruction (liquid nitrogen);
• diathermocoagulation (high frequency current);
• electrocoagulation (cauterization with electric current);
• lasers;
• chemical or surgical methods, 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 produced by the human immune system to protect itself from viruses. Thanks to modern scientific advances in the field of genetic engineering, interferon-based drugs are obtained through synthesis. This allows you to get a more pure (without impurities) and less allergenic medicine. Interferon drugs are absorbed into the blood and have a systemic effect on the whole body. However, there are cases where interferon treatment causes an allergic reaction. In this case, these drugs are stopped, and the doctor develops another course of drugs.

Additional food(dietary supplement) to foods containing indole-3-carbinol - a natural substance found in broccoli - the latest scientific findings. This chemical compound has a strong anti-carcinogenic effect (preventing malignant formation in the intestines, lungs, etc. ). It is worth noting that indole-3-carbinol is found in most types of cabbage. It has been proven that the use of indinol increases the effectiveness of interferon treatment. However, this drug is still being tested and its effects on the body are subject to detailed studies. Doctors may prescribe non-specific immunomodulators.

It is important to remember that the function of the immune system is not fully understood, because its condition changes depending on any intervention: whether therapeutic or microbial. For this reason, immunomodulators cannot be prescribed randomly. It should be noted that antiviral drugs such as antiviral drugs, which are very effective against herpes simplex, herpes zoster (shingles) and chicken pox virus, do not have any effect in the treatment of PVI. Therefore, its use is impractical.

During the treatment, the patient can also be advised:

• refraining from sexual intercourse, especially without protection, to prevent the virus from entering the partner's body;
• Strengthen your own immune system with diet and moderate physical activity.

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

Complications

The presence of papilloma and condyloma is a cosmetic defect. Growths located in the genital area have a negative impact on men'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 partner. With reduced immunity, condyloma can grow quickly, occupying a significant area. When the rectum is involved in the process, the sensation of a foreign body in the rectum appears, anal fissures and other proctological problems may develop. The spread of growth to the area of the urethra leads to the development of urological pathology. When the formation is injured, bleeding develops. When infection occurs, inflammation and pus begin, which is accompanied by pain, fever, weakness, and general condition disturbance.

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:

• direct sexual intercourse with a trusted partner and use barrier contraceptive measures. At the same time, modern research shows that only high-quality protective equipment can significantly reduce the risk of HPV infection for both partners;
• strengthen the immune system: diet, taking vitamins, etc. ;
• the use of special vaccines: the course of taking the drug for human papillomavirus in men is three injections into the brachial muscle and can minimize the risk of this disease. The injection must be given after a preliminary consultation with a specialist (this prevention can only be done in people who are not infected with HPV);
• preventive visit to the urologist to check the presence of sexually transmitted diseases and other possible problems with the genitourinary system, taking tests to identify viruses.

If characteristic formations are detected in the intimate area, as well as in other parts of the body, skin and mucous membranes, it is necessary to seek help from a specialist as soon as possible. This will prevent complications and other unwanted consequences for men's health. In this case, it is strongly not recommended to treat yourself, because only a specialist can correctly diagnose and prescribe the treatment of condyloma in men.

Frequently asked questions

What symptoms can cause papilloma in men?

Papilloma in men can appear as small warts or flat warts on the skin of the genitals, anus or near them. Itching, discomfort or slight pain in the affected area may also occur.

How is papilloma spread in men?

Papilloma in men is transmitted through contact with infected skin or mucous membranes of the genital organs. It can be spread through sexual intercourse, as well as through 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 sexual 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 at an early stage and prevent its spread.

Useful tips

Tip #1

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

Tip #2

Avoid injuring the papilloma. Do not try to remove it yourself, as this can cause 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 hygiene rules. Wash and dry the area around the papilloma regularly to prevent bacterial growth and infection. Avoid sharing hygiene items (such as towels or razors) with other people to avoid infection.