HPV Treatment Options For Men

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a viral infection that affects millions of people worldwide. While there is no cure for HPV itself, many treatments exist for the health issues associated with HPV, particularly genital warts and precancerous changes in the cervix, penis, anus, mouth, and throat. Although men cannot develop cervical cancer, they can still suffer from other forms of cancer related to HPV. Here, we will explore various HPV treatment men options diagnosed with HPV-related conditions.

Genital warts:

Genital warts are soft growths found around the genitals, caused by certain low-risk strains of HPV. The following treatments are commonly used to remove them:

Topical creams and solutions: Imiquimod, podofilox, and sinecatechins are topical medications applied directly to the affected area. These drugs stimulate the immune system to fight off the virus, resulting in the disappearance of visible warts.

Cryotherapy: This technique involves freezing warts with liquid nitrogen, causing tissue damage and eventual removal of the growths. Multiple sessions might be required for complete clearance.

Electrocautery: Using electrical current, warts can be burned away, providing instant relief from visible lesions. Local anesthesia is often utilized to minimize discomfort.

Laser surgery: High-intensity light beams can destroy wart tissue without damaging surrounding healthy skin. However, laser surgery tends to be more expensive than alternative methods.

Surgical excision: Physicians cut out warts using specialized tools under local anesthesia. Excisional surgery provides permanent elimination of visible warts but leaves scars behind.

Precancerous changes in the penis and anus:

Although rare, HPV can cause abnormal cell growth in the penis and anus, possibly progressing into invasive cancer if left untreated. Dysplastic penile and anal lesions are usually detected via biopsy and managed as follows:

Topical treatments: Similar to genital warts, imiquimod and podofilox can be used to eliminate dysplastic penile and anal cells.

Chemical peels: Trichloroacetic acid (TCA) and bichloroacetic acid (BCA) can induce chemical burns, destroying dysplastic cells in situ.

Electrosurgery: Electric current destroys abnormal cells, leaving minimal scarring. It is performed under local anesthesia and may necessitate multiple sessions.

Various treatment modalities address HPV-related health concerns in males, primarily targeting genital warts and precancerous alterations in the genitals, anus, mouth, and throat. Despite the lack of a direct HPV remedy, adherence to protective strategies, such as vaccination, safe sex practices, and routine evaluations, remains key to preserving overall wellbeing and mitigating long-term consequences.