Hpv Associated Cancers

Overview

HPV associated cancers are cancers that are associated with human papillomavirus. Human papillomavirus can cause cancers of the oropharynx, anus, vagina, cervix, vulva, and penis. They affect both men and women.

Signs and Symptoms

Abnormal bleeding or discharge from the vagina, vulva, penis, anus, Pain in the pelvis or lower back, anus, vulva, Growth or rash on penis, vulva, Bowel incontinence, Burning pain when urinating, Sore throat, Pain when swallowing, Lump in the neck, Earache

Common Causes

Human papillomavirus infection

Risk Factors

Pre-cancerous abnormalities such as cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN), cervical glandular intraepithelial neoplasia (CGIN) and vulval intraepithelial neoplasia (VIN), Heavy smoking, Chewing tobacco products and betel nuts, Excessive alcohol use, Poor diet with lots of salted or preserved food, Having a weakened immune system, Prolonged use of oral contraceptive pills, Having children at an early age, Having more than 5 children, Having anal sex, Increasing age, Personal history of cancer, Family history of cancer

Investigation Techniques

Medical history, Physical examination, Blood tests, Colposcopy, Sigmoidoscopy, Proctoscopy, Biopsy such as punch biopsy, fine needle aspiration with cytology, nasoendoscopy, panendoscopy, X-ray, Ultrasound, Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the affected area, Computerised tomography (CT) scan of the affected area, Positron emission tomography (PET) scan

Treatment and Prevention

Large loop excision of the transformation zone (LLETZ), Cone biopsy, Surgery such as trachelectomy, hysterectomy, pelvic exenteration, colostomy, reconstructive surgery, Radiation therapy, Chemotherapy, Targeted therapy, Photodynamic therapy, Palliative care