Papillomas in men

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is transmitted through physical contact and/or sexual intercourse. 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) is no longer in doubt, but for some unknown reason, it is only now that they have begun to make us afraid of the disease. this disease and its consequences. In the human body, different types of HPV manifest themselves in different ways. But the common feature of these viruses is the ability to cause the appearance of papillomas (warts) with many different shapes.

Papillomas develop at the site of initial exposure in about 1-3% of people infected with HPV. Papilloma is considered by doctors to be a benign tumor and does not pose any significant danger. Although any changes in normal cell growth in the form of tumors or spots should alert both the patient and the doctor. In some cases, HPV only manifests as a dermatological disease transmitted through household contact. HPV can also occur as a venereal disease, causing sexually transmitted genital papillomas. Because cancers in the cutaneous form of HPV are extremely rare, we will pay more attention to genital forms of HPV, in which cancer occurs much more frequently. Genital forms of HPV are 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 genital forms of HPV at some point in their lives.

Of course, being sexually active doesn't mean monogamous relationships are "outdated. "Indeed, provided that both partners have never had other sexual intercourse, the likelihood of genital HPV infection is almost zero. With each new sexual partner, the risk of infection increases significantly. Furthermore, it is possible to be infected with multiple types of HPV at the same time, not to mention other sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). Unlike most other infections, in which the main transmission factor is body fluids, contact of skin and mucous membranes is sufficient to transmit HPV. And if in the case of typical sexually transmitted diseases, the use of condoms is a relatively reliable treatment method, then for HPV, such as genital herpes, the effectiveness ofit's quite doubtful.

Papillomas in men

Papilloma in men is a clinical manifestation of patients infected with human papilloma virus. It should be said that this virus is quite common, but it is able to exist for a long time in the human body, practically without manifesting itself on the outside. Under the influence of predisposing factors, the human papillomavirus is activated, which leads to the formation of various tumors of the skin and mucous membranes. Some viruses are characterized by carcinogenic activity, therefore, any tumors on the skin and mucous membranes must be treated with extreme caution, under the supervision of a doctor.

Papillomas in men: causes of appearance

The reason papillomas appear on the body in men and women is because viruses can enter the body in many different ways:

• Due to unprotected sex: the most common type of infection, including the fact that a person can carry the virus for a long time without even knowing it, since the virus is only capable of manifesting itself underimpact of external factors. Transmission can also occur 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, cuts, etc. ). Due to the prevalence of this infectious cause, it is understandable that quite often papillomas (condylomas) in men and women appear in the private area, at points of contact, from which the risk of infection in men increases. usually higher, due to their nature. more 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 (bathhouse, swimming pool, gym, etc. ).

It is also important to remember that the indicated viral infection does not mean its manifestation.Usually, the disease becomes active and makes itself felt if:

• The patient's immunity is weakened;
• there is great physical or mental stress, tension, exhaustion;
• There are many types of sexually transmitted diseases.

Characteristics of papillomavirus infection in men

Under natural conditions, most viruses have low pathogenicity due to their infectivity and low resistance to infection of the host. After entering human cells, DNA viruses usually do not integrate into the cell's 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 in synchrony with the cell without harming the cell, a non-productive infection develops, otherwise the process is called persistent or asymptomatic spread.

If the virus replicates rapidly in cells, this is called asymptomatic carriage, or the release of thousands of active virus particles. This period is characterized by the appearance of round and growing masses on the skin and mucous membranes. However, HPV types 16 and 18 can integrate into the cell's genome without taking over the cell's genes. This phenomenon is called an "insertion mutation" and the altered gene will therefore be inherited by all descendants of a given cell. As a result, oncogenes are activated and tumors appear. Thus, these cells are passed on to all descendants from the moment the fetus is formed, during the woman's pregnancy and at childbirth.

Main infectious factors

• multiple sexual partners;
• use birth control pills;
• smoke;
• impaired cellular immunity (anemia, pathology of the thyroid gland, the presence of foci of chronic gonococcal infection - tonsillitis, sinusitis, dental caries);
• Limit artificial diets and lose weight.

With good immunity, in 50% of cases of HPV infection, the virus is eliminated from the female 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. According to the results of a study of men and women infected with human papillomavirus, genital warts, body papillomas, papillomas and flat warts were detected.

HPV in men: consequences

This virus can cause warts 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 wart has very dangerous consequences for men and requires treatment. Condylomas on the penis can lead to narrowing of the foreskin, making it difficult to expose the head of the penis and leading to problems in your personal life. It must also be remembered that in some cases, such formations are not a sign 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 can pass the virus on to their sexual partner, also putting them at risk of cancer. The virus can also be transmitted to the fetus from an infected mother, so couples wishing to have children should pay special attention to HPV and other diseases of this type.

HPV in men: symptoms

Normally, HPV can exist in the human body for a long time without manifesting 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 wartsand papillomas - warts, lumps and skin abnormalities. , its color does not differ from the main skin color.wart disease- This is a type of genital papilloma, which looks like a small tumor attached to the mucous membrane in the shape of a "foot". The size of the wart can vary from a few millimeters to several centimeters - in the latter case we are talking about an accumulation of warts. Such papillomas can appear on the head of the penis, on the foreskin and around the anus (then there is a high probability that papillomas can also be in the rectum). Usually they are painless, but in some cases, men may experience additional symptoms of human papillomavirus if the disease manifests as follows:

• pain when urinating, defecating, or having sex;
• bleeding from warts: sometimes ulcers that do not heal for a long time can form at the site;
• Sometimes warts can also itch.

The symptoms listed often indicate damage to the wart.

Treatment of HPV in men

Initial check

The appearance of papillomas, in addition to the presence of the HPV virus 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, especially papillomas on the tip of the penis, have a high potential to cause cancer, so when you first detect signs of the disease, you should consult a specialist. The sooner you start treating human papillomavirus, the better a man's chance of avoiding serious health consequences from genital warts. (All of the above also applies to women. )

First appointment

The first appointment with a specialist includes a thorough visual examination of the patient's mucous membranes and skin, as well as questioning the patient and prescribing tests. Although most papillomas usually have a characteristic appearance, additional tests and diagnostics help to determine with absolute accuracy the presence of the virus in the patient's body.If HPV infection is suspected in men, the following tests are often ordered::

• blood tests (for warts, as well as analysis of urethral secretions): modern diagnostic methods that help isolate viral DNA from available material and thereby confirm its presence in the bodypatient;
• Condylomas biopsy: performed to determine the presence or absence of cancer cells in the tumor.

Subsequent treatment regimen

The treatment of human papillomavirus in men is largely determined by the presence or absence of warts on the genitals. Like the herpes virus, it is almost impossible to completely eliminate the HPV virus, so effective treatment and surgical intervention are often aimed at eliminating its manifestations and prolonging the period of remission. Removal of HPV papillomas is not indicated in all cases. If the papilloma is not dangerous and does not cause problems for the patient, it may not be removed at the patient's request, but then the patient will have to have regular preventive examinations. Removal is a mandatory treatment for genital warts in men due to their unique location.

Treatment methods vary and are selected individually, including depending on the location of the tumor. In addition to removing the tumors, treatment of warts in men also involves the use of drugs that help strengthen the immune system so that the body can fight and inhibit the virus, thereby preventing symptoms. its presence. Depending on the method chosen to remove the wart, the patient may also be prescribed anti-inflammatory drugs.By the way, no technique can completely eliminate a person's infection: the disease is only "underground". This therapy is combined and includes removing tumors from the skin and using medication. Time depends on the affected area.All skin tumors are removed in several ways:

• use cold destruction method (liquid nitrogen);
• diathermocoagulation (high frequency current);
• electrocautery (cautery with electric current);
• laser;
• chemical or surgical methods, etc. v.

In addition to topical 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. v.

Interferonis a substance that the human immune system makes to protect itself from viruses. Thanks to modern scientific advances in the field of genetic engineering, drugs based on interferon are obtained by synthesis. This allows you to get a drug that is purer (without impurities) and less allergenic. The drug Interferon is absorbed into the blood and has a systemic effect on the entire body. However, there are cases where interferon treatment causes allergic reactions. In this regard, these drugs will be discontinued and the doctor will develop another course of medication.

Food supplements(food supplement) to foods containing indole-3-carbinol - a natural substance found in broccoli - the latest scientific discovery. This chemical compound has a strong anti-cancer effect (prevents malignant formation in the intestines, lungs, etc. ). It is noteworthy that indole-3-carbinol is found in most types of cabbage. It has been proven that the use of indinol enhances the effectiveness of interferon treatment. However, this drug is still being tested and its effects on the body are being studied in detail. The doctor may prescribe non-specific immunomodulators.

It is important to remember that the function of the immune system is not yet fully understood, as its state changes depending on any intervention: whether therapeutic or bacterial. For this reason, immunomodulatory drugs should not be prescribed randomly. It is important to remember that antiviral drugs such as antivirals, which are particularly effective against herpes simplex virus, herpes zoster (shingles) and chickenpox,  do not have any effect in treating PVI. Therefore, their use is impractical.

During treatment, the patient may also be advised:

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

Treatment results:It must be remembered that the course of HPV treatment, its duration and effectiveness largely depend on the general condition of the patient's body, accompanying diseases, as well as the development of possible complications of the disease. this disease (first of all cancer).

symptoms

The presence of papillomas and warts is an aesthetic defect. Development in the genital area negatively affects the mental and sexual health of men and leads to difficulties in communication with the opposite sex. In addition, such men are also a source of infection for their partners. With reduced immunity, warts can grow rapidly, occupying a significant area. When the rectum is involved in this process, the feeling of a foreign object in the rectum arises, and anal fissures and other anal problems may develop. The spread of growth to the urethral area leads to the development of urological pathology. When the formations are injured, bleeding will develop. When infection occurs, inflammation and suppuration begin, accompanied by pain, fever, weakness and general deterioration.

Prevent

The complexity of HPV treatment, as well as the serious health problems this virus can cause, dictate the importance of preventive measures, including:

• Order sex with a trusted partner and use barrier contraception. 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, take vitamins, etc. v. ;
• use of special vaccines: the course of medication for papillomavirus in men is three injections into the arm muscles and can minimize the risk of this disease. The injection must be carried out after preliminary consultation with a specialist (this prevention is possible only in people who are not infected with the HPV virus);
• preventive examination with a urologist to check for the presence of sexually transmitted diseases and other possible problems with the genitourinary system, do tests to identify viruses.

If characteristic shapes are detected in the private area, as well as on other parts of the body, skin and mucous membranes, it is necessary to quickly seek help from a specialist. This will avoid complications and other undesirable consequences for men's health. In these cases, you should not self-treat, because only a specialist can diagnose and prescribe the correct treatment for warts in men.

Frequently asked 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 near them. Itching, discomfort, or mild pain in the affected area may also occur.

How is papilloma transmitted in men?

Papilloma in men is transmitted through contact with infected skin or mucous membranes of genital organs. It can be transmitted 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, condoms should be used during sexual intercourse. Vaccination against human papillomavirus (HPV) can also reduce the risk of infection. Regular doctor visits and tests will also help identify the infection in its early stages and prevent its spread.

Helpful advice

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 number 2

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

Tip number 3

Comply with 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.