The human papillomavirus (HPV) produces epithelial tumors of the skin and mucous membranes. More than 100 HPV types are known, and the genomes of more than 80 have been completely sequenced. People with multiple sexual partners and those who already have persistent HPV infection are at increased risk for acquiring additional HPV strains. Infections due to HPV are common and lead to a wide variety of clinical manifestations.
Despite the generally benign nature of these proliferations, certain types of HPV can place patients at high risk for anogenital cancer. Some have also been implicated in laryngeal and oral cancer and some lung cancers. HPV infection alone does not cause malignant transformation of infected tissue. Cofactors, such as tobacco use, ultraviolet radiation, pregnancy, folate deficiency, and immune suppression, have been implicated in this process.
How much do you know about HPV? Test your knowledge with our quick quiz.
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Cite this: William James. Fast Five Quiz: Test Your Knowledge of Human Papillomavirus - Medscape - Sep 29, 2017.
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