Human papillomavirus - HPV

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a sexually transmitted virus that is present in up to 50 percent of sexually active people.

It is possible to become infected with HPV and not show any signs for years. There are many types of HPV. Some types are responsible for causing genital warts. Other forms HPV are responsible for causing cervical dysplasia or squamous intraepithelial lesions, resulting in a Pap smear that is not normal. The types of this virus that cause warts are not the types that cause cervical dysplasia and ultimately, cervical cancer. Currently, there is no treatment for the virus, itself. There is treatment available for genital warts, but they may recur. There is also treatment for cervical dysplasia when recommended by your gynecologist.