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HPV/Genital Warts Health Center

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HPV/Genital Warts Health Center

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Types of Human Papillomaviruses (HPVs)

More than 100 types of human papillomaviruses (HPVs)-which cause skin warts, genital warts, and abnormal cell changes on the cervix -have been identified. You may be infected with more than one type.

HPV types 6 and 11 cause the most visible genital warts. They are spread easily from person to person. However, they are rarely associated with the development of cervical cancer in women.
HPV types 16, 18, 31, 33, and 35 are strongly associated with abnormal cells on the cervix and cancer of the cervix. Nearly all cervical cancer tumors contain one of these types, which are sometimes called high-risk types. But many women may be infected with high-risk types of HPV but never develop precancerous changes or cancer.

DNA testing can identify whether high-risk types are present.

Recommended Related to HPV/Genital Warts

Understanding Genital Warts -- Diagnosis and Treatment

Usually genital warts are diagnosed by an exam. Warts have a characteristic appearance, but your doctor may want to take a biopsy (a small sample of tissue) to determine if the lesion is really a genital wart. Genital warts are caused by the HPV virus. Tests to determine the subtype of HPV are sometimes recommended since some are low risk for cancer and others are higher risk. If you are a woman and are diagnosed with warts, make sure to be tested for cervical irregularities by a pelvic exam. A...

Read the Understanding Genital Warts -- Diagnosis and Treatment article > >

By	Healthwise Staff
Primary Medical Reviewer	Sarah Anne Marshall, MD - Family Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer	Jeanne Marrazzo, MD, MPH - Infectious Disease
Last Revised	June 28, 2010

WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise

Last Updated: June 28, 2010

This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information.