Human Papillomavirus (HPV) & HIV

Human Papillomavirus (HPV) & HIV

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a viral infection that causes damage to cells in the genitals, especially the cervix. There are many different types of HPV, some of which can cause cervical cancer or pre-cancerous lesions on the cervix. In one study, women infected with HIV were 10 times more likely to have HPV than HIV-negative women, especially if their CD4+ count was below 500 cells/mL. In another study, 77% of HIV-positive women were also infected with HPV.

HPV is a fairly common vaginal infection among women who have HIV. It should be treated as soon as possible to prevent it from spreading and from developing into a serious condition. HIV-infected women who also have HPV are 30 times more likely to develop cervical cancer.

HPV is usually asymptomatic, but it may cause small, white warts or spots on the vagina or around the anus. Symptoms also may include some vaginal discharge and, rarely, painful intercourse.

Physicians usually diagnose HPV by doing a Pap smear, colposcopy, or biopsy, which involves examining infectious tissue under a microscope for the presence of pre-cancerous or cancerous abnormalities. There are several ways to treat HPV. The warts can be removed by burning, freezing, or cutting, or by treating them with a chemical or medication.