Overview
Human papillomaviruses (HPV) are a group of viruses that can infect keratinocytes and are associated with genital warts and cancer of the cervix, vagina, vulva, anus, and oropharynx. They lead to the production of epithelial tumours in the skin and mucous membranes and can produce viral proteins that contribute to malignancy.
Their type varies according to the site they infect:
- HPV-6 and HPV-11 are associated with genital warts
- HPV-16 and HPV-18 are associated with cervical cancer (seen in >99% of cases) and other cancers of the vagina, vulva, anus, and oropharynx
Vaccination
Overview
In the UK, HPV immunisation is offered to the following groups:
- All 12-13-year-olds, regardless of sex – this is normally given at school as a single dose
- Gay and bisexual men and other men who have sex with men (GBMSM) <25 years old – 1 dose
- GBMSM 25-45 years old – 2 doses
- Immunosuppression or HIV – 3 doses
