Infection caused by human papillomavirus type 18

Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Type 18

Human papillomavirus type 18 (HPV-18) is a type of the human papillomavirus and is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections in the United States. It is estimated that about 5% of sexually active adults have HPV-18. HPV-18 can cause genital warts and can lead to cervical, anal, and other genital cancers.

HPV-18 can be spread through direct contact of mucosal membranes and skin with the virus. This contact can occur during sexual activity, including vaginal, anal, or oral sex, as well as through skin-to-skin contact. The virus can also be spread from an infected mother to her baby during delivery.

Anyone who is sexually active can get HPV-18. Risk factors for HPV-18 include having multiple sexual partners, having sexual contact at a young age, smoking, and having a weakened immune system. A healthy lifestyle and maintaining safe sexual practices can help reduce the risk of HPV-18.

The most common symptom of HPV-18 is genital warts, which can appear on the genitals, anus, or inner thighs. HPV-18 can also cause cervical cancer, anal cancer, and other genital cancers. The best way to prevent HPV-18-related cancer is through HPV vaccination.

Treatment & Diagnosis

Genital warts caused by HPV-18 can be treated with medication applied directly to the warts, or surgery to remove them. HPV-18 can be easily diagnosed through a Pap test, which looks for abnormal cell changes in the cervix. The HPV infection itself can also be detected through DNA tests.

HPV-18 can be prevented by using condoms and maintaining safe sexual practices, as well as getting vaccinated. The HPV vaccine is recommended for 11 and 12-year-olds and is available to adults up to 45 years old. Getting vaccinated, as well as getting regular Pap tests, can help reduce the risk of HPV-18-related cancers.

Takeaway

HPV-18 is a sexually transmitted infection that can cause genital warts and lead to cervical, anal, and other genital cancers. It is spread through sexual activity, direct skin-to-skin contact, and from a pregnant mother to her baby during delivery. Risk factors for HPV-18 include having multiple sexual partners, having sexual contact at a young age, smoking, and having a weakened immune system.

Genital warts caused by HPV-18 can be treated with medications or surgery, and the virus itself can be detected through DNA tests. The best way to prevent HPV-18-related cancers is through HPV vaccination, which is available to people between 11 and 45 years old. A healthy lifestyle and safe sexual practices can help reduce the risk of HPV-18.