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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 been beyond doubt, but somehow only now have we begun to fear about this disease and its consequences. Meanwhile, in the human body, various types of HPV manifest themselves in different ways. However, the unifying characteristic of this virus is its ability to cause the appearance of papillomas (warts) in various forms.

papilloma on the penis

Papillomas develop at the primary contact site in approximately 1-3% of people infected with HPV. Papillomas are considered by doctors to be benign tumors and do not pose a significant threat. Although any changes in normal cell growth in the form of tumors or spots should be alerted to both patients and doctors. In some cases, HPV manifests itself exclusively as a dermatological disease with contact-household transmission. HPV can also occur as a venereal disease, causing a sexually transmitted form of genital papilloma. Because cancer cases are very rare in the cutaneous form of HPV, we will pay more attention to the genital form of HPV, where cancer is more common. 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.

Of course, sexual activity does not mean monogamous relationships are "outdated. "Indeed, as long as both partners have never had any other sexual contact, the chances of contracting the genital form of HPV are almost zero. With each new partner, the risk of infection increases significantly. Moreover, several types of HPV can be infected at once, not to mention other sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). In contrast to most other infections where the main factor of transmission is bodily fluids, skin and mucous membrane contact is enough to transmit HPV. And if in the case of STDs in general, the use of condoms is a relatively reliable treatment, then in relation to HPV, such as genital herpes, their effectiveness is somewhat doubtful.

Papilloma in men

Papilloma in men is a clinical manifestation of human papilloma virus infection in patients. It must be said that this virus is quite common, however, 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, as a result of which various neoplasms of the skin and mucous membranes are formed. Some types of viruses are characterized by oncogenic activity, so any neoplasms on the skin and mucous membranes should be treated with extreme caution, 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 various 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 realizing 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 membranes are damaged (there are cracks, scratches, cuts, etc. ). Due to the prevalence of this cause of infection, it is understandable that often papillomas (condylomas) in men and women appear in the intimate area, at the point of contact, so the risk of infection in men is usually higher, due to their nature. sexual activity is greater, but the woman's mucous membranes are less protected.
  • Through household contact: it has now been proven that the HPV virus can enter the human body through casual contact (even shaking hands), especially in public places (showers, swimming pools, gyms, etc. ).

It is also worth remembering that a particular viral infection does not mean its manifestation.Most often, the disease becomes active and makes itself felt if:

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

Features 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. After penetrating human cells, DNA viruses most often do not integrate into the cellular genome. In contrast, the protein (or group of proteins) encoded by the viral genome quickly activates the cell's DNA replication system. If the virus replicates synchronously with cells without destroying them, a non-productive type of infection develops, otherwise this process is called persistence or asymptomatic carriage.

If the virus reproduces rapidly within cells, the process is called asymptomatic carriage, or releasing 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 cell genome without hijacking cellular genes. This phenomenon is called "insertional mutagenesis, " and the altered gene is inherited by all the descendants of a particular cell. As a result, oncogenes are activated and tumors appear. Thus, these cells are inherited by all offspring from the moment the fetus is formed, during the woman's pregnancy, and at the birth of the child.

The main factor in the occurrence of infection

  • multiple sexual partners;
  • use of contraceptive pills;
  • smoke;
  • deficiency of cellular immunity (anemia, pathology of the thyroid gland, the presence of chronic foci of coccal infection - tonsillitis, sinusitis, caries);
  • artificial dietary 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 a 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 research on men and women infected with human papillomavirus infection, genital warts, papillomas on the body, warts and flat warts were found.

HPV in men: consequences

This virus can cause condyloma, 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. Condyloma on the penis can cause narrowing of the foreskin, making it difficult for the head of the penis to be visible and causing problems in your personal life. It is also worth remembering that in some cases, such formations are not an indicator of HPV, but of other sexually transmitted diseases that have not yet appeared (for example, syphilis). Another danger of HPV is that carriers of the virus can pass it on to their partners, thereby also putting them at risk of developing cancer. Transmission of the virus is also possible to the fetus of an infected mother, so couples who want to have children should pay special attention to HPV and other similar diseases.

HPV in men: symptoms

Most often, HPV can be present in the human body for a long time without manifesting. However, the most important sign (symptom) of the possible presence of HPV in men and women is the appearance of warts and papillomas on the skin and mucous membranes, including in the groin or genital area - warts, lumps and abnormalities on the skin. , the color is no different 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 condylomas can vary from a few millimeters to several centimeters - in the latter case we are talking about an accumulation of condyloma. Such papillomas can appear on the head of the penis, on the foreskin, and also around the anus (then it is very likely that condylomas can also occur in the rectum). Often the disease is painless, but in some cases men may experience additional symptoms of human papillomavirus if the disease manifests as:

  • pain when urinating, defecating, or having sex;
  • bleeding of the wart: sometimes ulcers that do not heal for a long time can form instead;
  • Also sometimes condyloma can feel itchy.

These symptoms usually indicate damage to the wart.

Treatment of HPV in men

Initial inspection

The appearance of papillomas, in addition to the presence of HPV in the human body, also indicates a weakening of the body's immune system and the possibility 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 when the first signs of the disease are detected, it is best to consult a specialist. The sooner you start treating human papillomavirus, the better a man's chances of avoiding the serious health consequences of condyloma. (All of the above also applies to women. )

Initial appointment

The 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 papillomas most often 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 in men is suspected, the following tests are usually performed::

  • blood test (for condyloma, also analysis of urethral secretions): modern diagnostic methods make it possible to isolate viral DNA from available materials and thereby confirm its presence in the patient's body;
  • papilloma (condyloma) biopsy: performed to determine whether there are cancer cells in the tumor.

Further treatment regimen

Treatment for human papillomavirus in men is largely determined by the presence or absence of warts on the genitals. As with the herpes virus, it is almost impossible to completely eliminate HPV, so therapeutic effects and surgical interventions 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 bother the patient, then at his request it should not be removed, but he should undergo regular preventive examinations. Removal is a mandatory treatment for genital warts in men, due to their special location.

Removal methods vary and are selected individually, including depending on the location of the tumor. In addition to removing the tumor, treatment of warts in men involves the use of drugs that help strengthen the immune system so that the body can fight and suppress the virus, thereby suppressing its manifestations. Depending on the method chosen to remove warts, the patient may also be prescribed anti-inflammatory drugs.By the way, not a single technique can completely get rid of a person's infection: the disease is simply "muffled". This therapy is combined and includes the removal of growths 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 (cautery with electric current);
  • laser;
  • 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 obtain a drug that is purer (without impurities) and does not cause allergies. Interferon drugs are absorbed into the blood and have systemic effects throughout the body. However, there are some cases where interferon treatment triggers allergic reactions. In this case, these medications are discontinued, and doctors develop other treatments.

Food supplement(food supplements) to foods containing indole-3-carbinol - a natural substance found in broccoli - the latest scientific discovery. This chemical compound has a strong anticarcinogenic effect (prevents the formation of malignant tumors in the intestines, lungs, etc. ). It is noteworthy that indole-3-carbinol is found in most cabbage varieties. It has been established that the use of indinol increases the effectiveness of interferon treatment. However, this drug is still in the testing phase and its effects on the body have yet to be studied in detail. The doctor may prescribe nonspecific immunomodulators.

It is important to remember that the function of the immune system is not yet fully understood, since its condition changes depending on any intervention: be it therapeutic or microbial. Therefore, immunomodulators should not be prescribed haphazardly. It should be remembered that antiviral drugs such as antiviral drugs, which are especially effective against herpes simplex virus, herpes zoster (herpes zoster), and chickenpox virus,  have no effect in the treatment of PVI. Therefore, its use is impractical.

During treatment, the patient may also be advised:

  • avoid sexual intercourse, especially unprotected, 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 timing 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 (first of all of an oncological nature).

Complications

The presence of papillomas and condylomas is a cosmetic defect. Growths located in the genital area have a negative impact on men's mental and sexual health and cause difficulties in communicating with the opposite sex. In addition, such men are a source of infection for their sexual partners. With reduced immunity, warts can grow rapidly, occupying large areas. When the rectum is involved in the process, the sensation of a foreign body in the rectum appears, anal fissure and other proctological problems may develop. The spread of growths to the urethral area causes the development of urological pathology. When the formation is injured, bleeding occurs. When infection occurs, inflammation and suppuration begin, which is accompanied by pain, fever, weakness, and general disturbance.

Prevention

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

  • order sexual intercourse with a trusted partner and use barrier contraception. At the same time, modern research shows that only high-quality personal protective equipment can significantly reduce the risk of HPV infection for both partners;
  • strengthening the immune system: diet, taking vitamins, etc. ;
  • use of a special vaccine: the way to take human papillomavirus medication in men is three injections into the brachial muscle and can minimize the risk of this disease. Injections should be given after preliminary consultation with a specialist (this prevention is only possible in people who are not infected with HPV);
  • preventive visits to a urologist to check for the presence of sexually transmitted diseases and other possible problems of the genitourinary system, carrying out tests to identify viruses.

If 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 quickly as possible. This will avoid complications and other undesirable consequences for men's health. In these cases, it is highly discouraged to self-medicate, since only a specialist can correctly diagnose and prescribe treatment for condyloma in men.

General Questions

What symptoms can papillomas cause in men?

Papillomas in men can appear as small warts or flat warts on the skin of the genitals, anus or nearby. Itching, discomfort, or mild pain in the affected area may also occur.

How are papillomas transmitted in men?

Papillomas in men are transmitted through contact with infected skin or mucous membranes of the genitals. This disease can be transmitted through sexual intercourse, or through direct contact with the affected area.

How to prevent papilloma infection in men?

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

Useful tips

Tip #1

Contact a dermatologist for professional advice and diagnosis. Only an experienced specialist can accurately determine whether a papilloma is dangerous and whether it requires 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 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 others to avoid spreading infection.