Human papillomavirus (HPV)

Definition

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a group of related viruses, some of which can cause genital warts and cancers such as cervical cancer. It is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections globally.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. HPV has more than 200 different strains, with types 16 and 18 being most strongly associated with cervical cancer.
2. The virus primarily infects epithelial cells of the skin and mucous membranes.
3. HPV is often asymptomatic, meaning individuals may carry and transmit the virus without showing symptoms.
4. Vaccines are available to protect against the most harmful strains of HPV, including those linked to cancer.
5. Both high-risk and low-risk HPV types exist; high-risk types can lead to cancers while low-risk types typically cause warts.

Review Questions

• What are the primary health risks associated with high-risk HPV strains?
• How does HPV transmission occur and what are common modes of prevention?
• What are the potential outcomes for individuals infected with low-risk versus high-risk HPV?

Related terms

Epithelial Cells: Cells that line the surfaces of organs and structures throughout the body, forming a protective barrier.

Cervical Cancer: A type of cancer arising from the cervix, often caused by persistent infection with high-risk HPV strains.

Pap Smear: A medical procedure used to screen for cervical cancer by collecting cells from the cervix.