Description:
Our understanding of human
papillomavirus (HPV) infection and its consequences has increased greatly over
the past few decades. Screening technologies such as liquid-based cytology and
HPV DNA testing is available to help clinicians distinguish between transient
infection, which is benign, and persistent infection with high-risk HPV types,
which may lead to cervical cancer. Vaccines designed to prevent the acquisition of
specific HPV types have been at the forefront not only within the confines of
our clinical setting but transcends across the political arena. This article
discusses HPV in detail.
Learning Objectives:
- Define HPV
- Discuss risk factors for HPV
- Discuss screening methods for HPV
Author(s):
Joseph H. Balatbat, RMA, RPT
Launched: 2007