papilloomaviruksiin

Papilloomaviruksiin is the Finnish term for papillomaviruses. Papillomaviruses are a group of viruses that infect the skin and mucous membranes of humans and other animals. There are over 200 known types of human papillomavirus (HPV), and they are classified by number. Different types of HPV are associated with different conditions.

The most common type of HPV infection is asymptomatic, meaning it causes no noticeable symptoms. However, some types of HPV can cause warts, which are benign growths on the skin. These can appear on the hands, feet, face, or genitals. Genital warts are a sexually transmitted infection.

Other types of HPV are considered high-risk because they can cause precancerous changes that may eventually develop into cancer. These cancers can occur in the cervix, anus, penis, vulva, vagina, and throat. Regular screening, such as Pap smears for cervical cancer, can detect these precancerous changes early.

Papillomavirus infections are typically spread through direct contact, most commonly sexual contact, but also skin-to-skin contact. The virus enters the body through small cuts or abrasions in the skin or mucous membranes.

Vaccines are available that protect against the most common high-risk HPV types and some types that cause genital warts. These vaccines are most effective when administered before exposure to the virus. Treatment for HPV infections generally involves managing the symptoms, such as removing warts or treating precancerous lesions, as there is no cure for the virus itself once infected. The immune system can often clear the infection over time.