Genital Warts Research Articles

Evaluation of artificial intelligence-powered screening for sexually transmitted infections-related skin lesions using clinical images and metadata

BackgroundSexually transmitted infections (STIs) pose a significant global public health challenge. Early diagnosis and treatment reduce STI transmission, but rely on recognising symptoms and care-seeking behaviour of the individual. Digital health software that distinguishes STI skin conditions could improve health-seeking behaviour. We developed and evaluated a deep learning model to differentiate STIs from non-STIs based on clinical images and symptoms.MethodsWe used 4913 clinical images of genital lesions and metadata from the Melbourne Sexual Health Centre collected during 2010–2023. We developed two binary classification models to distinguish STIs from non-STIs: (1) a convolutional neural network (CNN) using images only and (2) an integrated model combining both CNN and fully connected neural network (FCN) using images and metadata. We evaluated the model performance by the area under the ROC curve (AUC) and assessed metadata contributions to the Image-only model.ResultsOur study included 1583 STI and 3330 non-STI images. Common STI diagnoses were syphilis (34.6%), genital warts (24.5%) and herpes (19.4%), while most non-STIs (80.3%) were conditions such as dermatitis, lichen sclerosis and balanitis. In both STI and non-STI groups, the most frequently observed groups were 25–34 years (48.6% and 38.2%, respectively) and heterosexual males (60.3% and 45.9%, respectively). The Image-only model showed a reasonable performance with an AUC of 0.859 (SD 0.013). The Image + Metadata model achieved a significantly higher AUC of 0.893 (SD 0.018) compared to the Image-only model (p < 0.01). Out of 21 metadata, the integration of demographic and dermatological metadata led to the most significant improvement in model performance, increasing AUC by 6.7% compared to the baseline Image-only model.ConclusionsThe Image + Metadata model outperformed the Image-only model in distinguishing STIs from other skin conditions. Using it as a screening tool in a clinical setting may require further development and evaluation with larger datasets.

High silent prevalence of human herpesvirus 1 (HSV-1) infection affecting the indigenous reservation of the municipality of Dourados, Central-West Brazil

BackgroundThe indigenous population located in the central region of Brazil, is the second largest in terms of population size in the country. The Indigenous Reserve of Dourados has risk factors that increase the vulnerability of the indigenous population to infectious diseases, especially Human alphaherpesvirus (HSV-1), a neglected disease with high prevalence in priority populations in developing countries. The virus can also cause many more severe diseases, including widespread neonatal infections, herpetic keratitis, and herpes encephalitis, which can be fatal if left untreated. We estimated the prevalence of anti-HSV-1 antibodies and correlated it with the demographic and behavioral characteristics of the Indigenous population of the Jaguapirú and Bororó villages (Dourados, Mato Grosso do Sul (MS), Brazil).MethodsOur approach was cross-sectional. From March 2017 to November 2018. Using anti-HSV-1 (Gg1) IgM and anti-HSV-1 (gG1) IgG Euroimmun and the detection and quantification of HSV-1 viral load in plasma samples, through real-time PCR. The maps were constructed using QGIS and the statistical analyses using R Studio software.ResultsA total of 1138 individuals (> 18 years old) were enrolled. The prevalence of anti-HSV-1 IgM and IgG were 20% and 97.5%, respectively. The prevalence of anti-HSV-1 antibodies for IgG was higher in both sexes. Anti-HSV-1 IgM antibodies were present in 17.1%, 21.2%, 12.5%, and 22% of the participants with urinary problems, genital wounds, genital warts, and urethral discharge, respectively. Real-time PCR was used for confirmatory testing; HSV-1 DNA was detected in 25.6% (54/211) of anti-HSV1 IgM-positive samples. Viral loads ranged from 5.99E + 02 to 3.36E + 13.ConclusionsThe seroprevalence of HSV-1 IgM and detection of HSV-1 DNA in the Indigenous population confirmed high silent prevalence. Furthermore, the seroprevalence of HSV-1 in the Indigenous population was higher than that reported in the general adult Brazilian population. Various socioeconomic factors, drug use, and health and sexual behaviors could contribute to the facilitation of HSV-1 transmission in the Indigenous population. Our results may help develop culturally appropriate intervention programs that eliminate health access barriers and improve the implementation of public health policies aimed at promoting information regarding the prevention, treatment, and control of HSV-1 infection in Brazilian Indigenous populations.

Condyloma acuminatum of the anorectum observed by texture and color enhancement imaging endoscopy and treated by underwater endoscopic mucosal resection

Condyloma acuminatum of the anorectum observed by texture and color enhancement imaging endoscopy and treated by underwater endoscopic mucosal resection

HPV Infections-Classification, Pathogenesis, and Potential New Therapies.

To date, more than 400 types of human papillomavirus (HPV) have been identified. Despite the creation of effective prophylactic vaccines against the most common genital HPVs, the viruses remain among the most prevalent pathogens found in humans. According to WHO data, they are the cause of 5% of all cancers. Even more frequent are persistent and recurrent benign lesions such as genital and common warts. HPVs are resistant to many disinfectants and relatively unsusceptible to external conditions. There is still no drug available to inhibit viral replication, and treatment is based on removing lesions or stimulating the host immune system. This paper presents the systematics of HPV and the differences in HPV structure between different genetic types, lineages, and sublineages, based on the literature and GenBank data. We also present the pathogenesis of diseases caused by HPV, with a special focus on the role played by E6, E7, and other viral proteins in the development of benign and cancerous lesions. We discuss further prospects for the treatment of HPV infections, including, among others, substances that block the entry of HPV into cells, inhibitors of viral early proteins, and some substances of plant origin that inhibit viral replication, as well as new possibilities for therapeutic vaccines.

Intralesional Mumps, Measles, Rubella (MMR) Vaccine as Therapy for Recurrent Condyloma Acuminata: A Case Report

Background: Condyloma acuminata (CA), a prevalent sexually transmitted infection caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), presents challenges in treatment due to its high recurrence rate. While various treatment modalities exist, intralesional immunotherapy with the mumps, measles, rubella (MMR) vaccine has shown promise in managing HPV-related conditions. This case report investigates intralesional MMR vaccine in treating recurrent CA. Case presentation: A 24-year-old female presented with recurrent CA lesions on the labia majora and perianal region. Despite prior treatment with trichloroacetic acid (TCA), the lesions had reappeared. Intralesional MMR vaccine injections were administered twice, one month apart, resulting in complete lesion resolution within six weeks of the second injection. No recurrence was observed during a six-month follow-up period, and the patient reported only mild, transient pain at the injection sites. Conclusion: This case report highlights the potential of intralesional MMR vaccine as an effective and well-tolerated treatment option for recurrent CA. Further research is warranted to validate these findings and establish optimal treatment protocols.

Evaluation of Intralesional Injection of Combined Furosemide and Digoxin Formula In Genital Warts

Abstract Background External genital warts (EGWs) are benign epidermal growths on the anogenital regions, which can occur in both women and men. They are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). More than 90% of cases of anogenital warts are caused by HPV types 6 and 11.There are several different ways to treat genital warts with varying degrees of success. However, till now no definitive treatment has emerged as the ideal standard of care in the treatment of genital warts and this has developed the need for new ways and modalities to help manage genital warts more efficiently. Objective To evaluate and verify efficacy, safety and tolerability of intralesional ionic anti-viral injection of combined furosemide and digoxin in treatment of multiple resistant genital warts. Patients and Methods This study included 30 patients divided into 2 groups, 15 patients each, the study group received intralesional injection of combined digoxin and furosemide, one injection every week for maximum 5 injection sessions (5 weeks). 0.3 ml of combined digoxin and furosemide solution was slowly injected into the base of each wart with maximum 5 warts in the session, and the other group received intralesional saline as a control group. Results Both groups demonstrated insignificant differences regarding all demographic characteristics (age, sex, size of warts before treatment, number of warts before treatment and number of sessions) as well as duration of disease. The treatment used in this study was safe and tolerable with no systemic exposure with regards to the cardiac system (by ECG before and after treatment). Future studies are recommended on larger number of the patients with multiple genital warts. It might be helpful to try increasing the number of treatment sessions, increasing the number of warts treated per session, decreasing the interval between the sessions or increasing the concentration of the active treatment. Conclusion Intralesional injection of combined digoxin and furosemide wasn’t effective intreatment of genital warts.

Parental Awareness, Attitude, and Acceptability of the Human Papillomavirus Vaccine in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia: An Analytical Cross-Sectional Study.

Background Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a significant public health concern linked to various cancers and genital warts. Despite the availability of effective vaccines, vaccination rates remain suboptimal in many regions. Understanding parental awareness, attitudes, and acceptability of the HPV vaccine is critical for developing targeted interventions to increase vaccination uptake. Objective This study aims to assess parental awareness, attitudes, and acceptability of the HPV vaccine in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, and identify factors influencing their decision-making regarding HPV vaccination for their children. Methods An analytical cross-sectional study was conducted in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, in 2023. The calculated sample size was 420 parents. Eligible parents with at least one female child aged from nine to 18 years old were invited to participate in the study. A structured questionnaire was administered to parents, collecting data on demographics, knowledge of HPV and its vaccine, attitudes toward vaccination, and reasons for vaccine acceptability or hesitancy. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize the data, and inferential statistics were applied to identify associations between demographic factors and vaccine acceptability. Results The study included a diverse sample of parents. Approximately 153 (35.9%) of participants believed the HPV vaccine was effective, while 129 (30.3%) felt the benefits outweighed the risks. Common reasons for vaccinating included protection against sexually transmitted diseases (159, 37.3%) and genital cancers (178, 41.8%). Hesitancy was primarily due to fear of adverse effects (141, 33.1%) and insufficient information (84, 19.7%). Statistical analysis revealed significant correlations between vaccine acceptability and parental education level, employment status, and personal vaccination history. Conclusion The findings highlight a moderate level of awareness and acceptability of the HPV vaccine among parents in Jeddah. Educational interventions focusing on vaccine safety and efficacy are essential to address misconceptions and increase vaccination rates. Further research should explore tailored strategies to enhance parental acceptance of HPV vaccination in similar contexts.

Preparation and Evaluation of Cream Containing Betel Leaf Extract for Removal of Cutaneous Warts

Abstract: Warts are common skin growths caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). They can appear on any part of the body but are most commonly found on the hands, feet, and genitals. Warts are usually harmless but can be unsightly or cause discomfort, especially if they are frequent friction or pressure. There are several types of warts, including common warts, plantar warts (on the soles of the feet), genital warts, and flat warts (often found on the face). Creams are semisolid dosage form containing one or more drugs substances dissolved or dispersed in a suitable base. They are emulsion of either W/O, O/W creams are uses for various purposes. Wart removal cream contains some synthetic substances as well as herbal ingredients like betel steam which is having antiviral activity against the human papilloma virus (HPV). Then calcium carbonate and sodium hydroxide slowly absorbed into the skin causing rupturing of the skin cells that contains the wart virus. To prepare wart removal cream sodium hydroxide and calcium carbonate along with the aqueous extract of betel leaf by maceration with the excipients such as stearic acid, glycerin, methyl paraben, distilled water are used. Finally, the cream is evaluated with various parameters such as physical and chemical properties like pH, viscosity, spreadability, texture. As this cream has clove oil which is used as an analgesic to avoid the irritational pain. The pH of the cream is supposed to be basic and around 12-12.5. During the evaluation the pH of the cream was found out to be 12.1. Cream was easily spreadable and it had a pleasant appearance.

Therapeutic Role of HPV Vaccination on Benign HPV-induced Epithelial Proliferations in Immunocompetent and Immunocompromised Patients: Case Study and Review of the Literature.

Human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination represents a milestone in primary prevention of sexually transmitted infections. However, little is known about its possible effects on already established HPV infections. We report the case of a 9-year-old immunosuppressed girl with refractory warts, successfully treated with the nonavalent-HPV vaccine and review the literature about the therapeutic effects of HPV vaccination on benign HPV-induced epithelial proliferations in immunocompetent and immunosuppressed patients. In the literature, promising results were shown on cutaneous warts after HPV vaccination, especially in children and young adults, also in immunosuppressed patients, whereas controverse results were found on anogenital warts. These findings suggest a critical need for randomized clinical trials to assess the efficacy of HPV vaccination in the treatment of benign HPV-induced epithelial proliferations.

Efficacy of Garlic Extract (Allium sativum L.) as a Therapeutic Modality of Condyloma Acuminata: A Meta-Analysis

Background: Condyloma acuminata (CA) is a sexually transmitted infection caused by human papillomavirus (HPV). Current standard treatment has limitations, so effective and safe alternative therapies are needed. Garlic (Allium sativum L.) has long been used in traditional medicine and has potential as an antiviral and antitumor agent. This study aims to evaluate the efficacy of garlic extract as a CA therapy modality through meta-analysis. Methods: A literature search was conducted on PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases to identify randomized controlled clinical studies (RCTs) evaluating the efficacy of garlic extract in CA patients. Extracted data included study characteristics, interventions, sample size, clinical outcomes, and side effects. Statistical analysis was performed using Review Manager 5.4 software. Results: A total of 8 RCTs involving 542 CA patients met the inclusion criteria. Meta-analysis showed that garlic extract was significantly more effective in clearing CA lesions compared with placebo (OR 2.87; 95% CI 1.95-4.23; p &lt; 0.00001). Garlic extract also demonstrated comparable effectiveness to standard therapies such as podophyllin and imiquimod. There was no significant difference in the incidence of side effects between the garlic extract group and the control group. Conclusion: Garlic extract is an effective and safe therapeutic modality for CA. Further studies with more robust designs are needed to confirm these findings and explore the mechanism of action of garlic extract on CA.

Expression profile of long noncoding RNAs and comprehensive analysis of lncRNA-cisTF-DGE regulation in condyloma acuminatum

ObjectiveTo identify differentially expressed long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) in condyloma acuminatum (CA) and to explore their probable regulatory mechanisms by establishing coexpression networks.MethodsHigh-throughput RNA sequencing was performed to assess genome-wide lncRNA expression in CA and paired adjacent mucosal tissue. The expression of candidate lncRNAs and their target genes in larger CA specimens was validated using real-time quantitative reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT‒qPCR). Furthermore, Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analyses were used for the functional enrichment analysis of these candidate lncRNAs and differential mRNAs. The coexpressed mRNAs of the candidate lncRNAs, calculated by Pearson’s correlation coefficient, were also analysed using GO and KEGG analysis. In addition, the interactions among differentially expressed lncRNAs (DElncRNAs)-cis-regulatory transcription factors (cisTFs)-differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were analysed and their network was constructed.ResultsA total of 546 lncRNAs and 2553 mRNAs were found to be differentially expressed in CA compared to the paired control. Functional enrichment analysis revealed that the DEGs coexpressed with DElncRNAs were enriched in the terms of cell adhesion and keratinocyte differentiation, and the pathways of ECM-receptor interaction, local adhesion, PI3K/AKT and TGF-ß signaling. We further constructed the network among DElncRNAs-cisTFs-DEGs and found that these 95 DEGs were mainly enriched in GO terms of epithelial development, regulation of transcription or gene expression. Furthermore, the expression of 3 pairs of DElncRNAs and cisTFs, EVX1-AS and HOXA13, HOXA11-AS and EVX1, and DLX6-AS and DLX5, was validated with a larger number of specimens using RT‒qPCR.ConclusionCA has a specific lncRNA profile, and the differentially expressed lncRNAs play regulatory roles in mRNA expression through cis-acting TFs, which provides insight into their regulatory networks. It will be useful to understand the pathogenesis of CA to provide new directions for the prevention, clinical treatment and efficacy evaluation of CA.

Attitudes toward an HPV vaccine for condyloma acuminata and willingness to undergo vaccination among STD clinic attendees in China: Focus on STI prevention with HPV vaccine

BackgroundCondyloma acuminata (CA) is a common, and recurrent sexually transmitted disease (STD) that greatly contributes to direct health care costs and has a substantial psychosocial impact. Human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination (containing L1 protein for HPV types 6 and 11) effectively controls CA.ObjectivesWe investigated attitudes toward the HPV vaccine for CA and willingness to undergo vaccination among STD clinic attendees in China.MethodsAttendees at STD clinics at two selected hospitals in Guangdong and Jiangsu Provinces from May to September 2017 were requested to complete a self-administered questionnaire for this cross-sectional study.ResultsThe participants’ median age was 28 years (IQR: 24.0–34.0), and the sex ratio was balanced; 63.5% were from Guangdong, 36.5% were from Jiangsu, and 44.5% had a history of CA. The vaccine acceptance rate was high among the participants (85.8%,235/274) to whom the HPV vaccine for CA was available, especially among those who had heard of CA (89.0%, AOR = 3.14, 95% CI: 1.29–7.63, p = 0.0114). 95 (34.7%) of 274 participants had a positive attitude toward the HPV vaccine for CA. STD clinic attendees who had heard of the connection between HPV and CA (AOR = 2.56, 95% CI: 1.31-5.00, p = 0.0060), had heard of the HPV vaccines or cervical cancer vaccines (AOR = 1.90, 95% CI: 1.02–3.54, p = 0.0444) and had ever proactively discussed CA or the vaccine with others (AOR = 1.95, 95% CI:1.00-3.79, p = 0.0488) had better attitudes toward the HPV vaccine for CA. Over half of the participants (52.5%) expected the price of the HPV vaccine for CA to be under $90.ConclusionThe acceptance of the HPV vaccine for CA was high among STD clinic attendees in China, and the participants’ self-perceived knowledge of CA and HPV was associated with better attitudes toward the HPV vaccine for CA. Education to improve knowledge is vital for reducing vaccine hesitancy.

Retrospective Cross-Sectional Epidemiological Study of Human Papillomavirus-Associated Precancers and Anogenital Warts in Patients Attending Specialized Clinics in Russian Federation

Background. In Russia, there are no country level registries on HPV-associated pre-cancers (cervical intraepithelial neoplasia, CIN; vulvar intraepithelial neoplasia, VIN; vaginal intraepithelial neoplasia, VaIN; anal intraepithelial neoplasia, AIN; penile intraepithelial neoplasia PIN) and anogenital warts (AWs) and no national-level cervical cancer screening program. Aims — the aim of this study was to assess the proportion of patients with CIN, VIN, VaIN, AIN, PIN and AWs diagnosis in the clinical settings in Russia. Methods. This study was a non-interventional retrospective multi-center chart-review study in 28 investigational sites representing 21 Federal subjects of 6 Federal Districts of Russia. Medical charts of adult men and women visited gynecology, sexual health, dermatovenerology or urology services between 1 Jan 2000 — 31 Dec 2019 were reviewed. Data were abstracted, using a standardized approach, on patient demographic characteristics, presence or absence of pre-cancers and AWs diagnoses, method of diagnosing pre-cancer and HPV infection, and grade of neoplasia. Results. A total of 11 520 patients (1732 male and 9788 female) were included in the analysis. The overall proportion of patients with HPV-associated precancers and AWs was 10.8%. By service type, cases of HPV-associated conditions were revealed most often in dermatological departments (14.5%) and gynecological hospitals (13.8%). CIN detection rate in Russian clinical settings increased over the 20-years from 3.2 to 11.1% and was higher in gynecological in-patient departments compared to out-patient departments (12.5 and 5.2% respectively). The number of non-cervical precancers (VIN, VaIN, AIN, PIN) cases were very low (the detection rate was less than 1%). The frequency of HPV type 16 and 18 detection increased from 0.6 to 4.8%, and from 0.2 to 1.9%, respectively, for the 20-years period. Conclusions. Our study suggested high level of HPV-related pre-cancer and AW disease burden as well as presence of high-risk HPV types. Preventive strategy through effective national HPV immunization program would be beneficial to reduce HPV-related disease burden in Russia.

A nomogram to predict anal condyloma acuminatum recurrence in HIV-negative patients following photodynamic therapy: A decade-long retrospective clinical study at a single tertiary hospital

BackgroundAnal condyloma acuminatum (CA) is marked by its thorny treatment and high recurrence rate. Although 5-aminolevulinic acid photodynamic therapy (ALA-PDT) demonstrates significant efficacy and safety in treating anal CA, it does not completely prevent recurrence. This study aimed to develop and validate a nomogram model in predicting the risk of relapse in HIV-negative patients with anal CA following treatment with ALA-PDT. MethodsA retrospective analysis was conducted on patients diagnosed with anal CA who received combined CO2 laser vaporization and ALA-PDT between January 2013 and May 2023. Patients were divided into recurrence and non-recurrence groups. A nomogram was developed based on factors showing statistical significance in multivariable logistic regression analysis. The discriminative ability and clinical utility of the nomogram were assessed via ROC curves and decision curve analysis, with internal validation performed through bootstrap resampling. ResultsAmong the 176 patients included, 33 (18.75 %) experienced recurrence, while 143 did not. Independent predictors for recurrence included HPV types, history of anal intercourse, and the number of CO2 laser treatments received. Incorporating these predictors, the nomogram demonstrated a superior diagnostic performance (area under the curve = 0.881, 95 % CI: 0.818–0.935) and a significant net benefit in decision curve analysis. ConclusionsThe nomogram accurately predicts the risk of recurrence in HIV-negative patients with anal CA following ALA-PDT. It offers a valuable tool for guiding preoperative clinical decision-making and establishing personalized treatment strategies to minimize the risk of relapse.

Syphilis in surgery-Safe diagnosis and correct treatment

The incidence of syphilis has clearly increased in Germany in recent years. This infectious disease has many forms of manifestation and can imitate surgical diseases. Comprehensive footage of experiences in aproctological center demonstrates these manifestations and explains the correct management. The likelihood of confusion of syphilis with anal fissures, anogenital warts, proctitis and rectal cancer is high. Surgeons can encounter syphilis, the "chameleon of medicine" and must know the differential diagnoses.

Quality of life in patients with anogenital warts: A cross‐sectional study using the Dermatology Life Quality Index questionnaire

Quality of life in patients with anogenital warts: A cross‐sectional study using the Dermatology Life Quality Index questionnaire

Factors Associated with HPV Genital Warts: A Self-Reported Cross-Sectional Study among Students and Staff of a Northern University in Nigeria.

The menace of human papillomavirus (HPV) infections among low- and middle-income countries with no access to a free HPV vaccine is a public health concern. HPV is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in Nigeria, while the most known types of HPV genotypes being transmitted are the high-risk HPV-16 and 18 genotypes. In this study, we explored the predictors of self-reported HPV infections and HPV genital warts infection among a population of students, non-academic staff, and academic staff of Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida (IBB) University located in Lapai, Nigeria. We also assessed their knowledge about HPV infections and genotypes, and sexual behaviors. An online cross-sectional study was conducted by setting up a structured questionnaire on Google Forms and it was distributed to the university community via Facebook and other social media platforms of the university. The form captured questions on HPV infection, and knowledge about HPV infection and genotypes, as well as the sexual health of the participants. All variables were described using frequencies and percentage distribution; chi-squared test statistics were used to explore the association between HPV infection (medical records of HPV infection) and the participants' profile, and a logistic regression analysis was performed to examine the factors associated with HPV genital warts infection among the population. This study reveals those participants between the ages of 26-40 years (81.3%) and those currently not in a sexually active relationship-single/divorced (26.4%)-who have self-reported having the HPV-16 and -18 genotypes. Moreover, participants between 26-40 years of age (OR: 0.45, 95%CI: 0.22-0.89) reported themselves to be carriers of HPV genital warts. Therefore, this study reveals the factors associated with HPV infection and genital warts peculiar to IBB university students and staff. Hence, we suggest the need for HPV awareness programs and free HPV vaccine availability at IBB university.

Knowledge on Human Papillomavirus Infections, Cancer Biology, Immune Interactions, Vaccination Coverage and Common Treatments: A Comprehensive Review.

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a circular, double-stranded DNA virus and recognized as the most prevalent sexually transmitted infectious agent worldwide. The HPV life cycle encompasses three primary stages. First, the virus infiltrates the basal cells of the stratified epidermis. Second, there is a low-level expression of viral genes and preservation of the viral genome in the basal layer. Lastly, productive replication of HPV occurs in differentiated cells. An effective immune response, involving various immune cells, including innate immunity, keratinocytes, dendritic cells, and natural killer T cells, is instrumental in clearing HPV infection and thwarting the development of HPV-associated tumors. Vaccines have demonstrated their efficacy in preventing genital warts, high-grade precancerous lesions, and cancers in females. In males, the vaccines can also aid in preventing genital warts, anal precancerous lesions, and cancer. This comprehensive review aims to provide a thorough and detailed exploration of HPV infections, delving into its genetic characteristics, life cycle, pathogenesis, and the role of high-risk and low-risk HPV strains. In addition, this review seeks to elucidate the intricate immune interactions that govern HPV infections, spanning from innate immunity to adaptive immune responses, as well as examining the evasion mechanisms used by the virus. Furthermore, the article discusses the current landscape of HPV vaccines and common treatments, contributing to a holistic understanding of HPV and its associated diseases.

How do beliefs about different human papillomavirus-related diseases vary among young gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men in the United States?

PurposeTo determine how beliefs about various disease outcomes caused by human papillomavirus (HPV) infection differ among young gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (YGBMSM). MethodsFrom 2019 to 2021, we recruited cisgender YGBMSM ages 18–25 in the United States who were unvaccinated against HPV (n = 1,227). Survey items examined three disease outcomes (genital warts, anal cancer, and oropharyngeal cancer) for each of three different beliefs (perceived vulnerability, perceived severity, and worry) ResultsParticipants reported lower perceived vulnerability to and worry about anal cancer and oropharyngeal cancer compared to genital warts (all p < 0.001). Participants also reported greater perceived severity of anal cancer and oropharyngeal cancer compared to genital warts (all p < 0.001). Some patterns of beliefs differed by participant characteristics. ConclusionsThe beliefs of YGBMSM varied by HPV-related disease outcome. Findings can guide future HPV vaccination communication efforts for YGBMSM by informing how to better frame messages and increase relevance.

Knowledge, Awareness, and Perception Towards Human Papilloma Virus Vaccination Among the General Population in Makkah, Saudi Arabia: A Cross-Sectional Study

Background and aim: This cross-sectional study sought to assess knowledge, awareness, and perceptions about HPV vaccination among the general population in Makkah, Saudi Arabia, and identify factors influencing HPV vaccination decisions. Materials and Methods: From May to April 2023 in Makkah, a descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out using random sampling techniques to select 501 participants for this research project. An online survey was distributed through social media platforms to collect the necessary data using structured questionnaires. Descriptive statistics and logistic regression models were then employed for data analysis. Results: Most participants were female (78.1%), Saudi nationals (95.6%) and married (51.3%). Only 41.3% were familiar with HPV, and their awareness varied regarding its association with cervical cancer and genital warts. Among those informed about HPV, 72.0% were aware of the HPV vaccine, and about two-thirds believed it could prevent cervical cancer. Concerns regarding potential side effects were prevalent among participants. Factors associated with knowledge about HPV included employment in a health-related sector, pursuing a health specialty degree, and higher family income. Conversely, being married and older was associated with lower levels of awareness. Conclusion: This study highlights a lack of knowledge and awareness regarding HPV infection and the HPV vaccine among the general population in Makkah, Saudi Arabia. Efforts should be made to improve education and awareness programs to increase knowledge about HPV and promote HPV vaccination. Targeted interventions addressing misconceptions and concerns about the vaccine could enhance vaccine acceptance and uptake among the population.