Is HPV18 positive serious, and how should it be treated?
Dec 12, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Lu
Introduction
Whether HPV type 18 positive is serious mainly depends on the duration of infection and presence of lesions. If the infection is short-term and asymptomatic, it is generally not serious. However, if the infection persists and causes cervical lesions, it can be more serious. Treatments may include general management, medication, laser therapy, cryotherapy, or cervical conization.
Generally, HPV refers to human papillomavirus. The severity of a positive result for Human Papillomavirus Type 18 mainly depends on the duration of infection and the presence of lesions. If the infection is short-term and asymptomatic, it is generally not serious. However, if the infection persists and causes cervical lesions, it is considered more severe. Treatment options include general management, medication, laser therapy, cryotherapy, and cervical conization. If you experience any discomfort, seek medical attention promptly. Detailed analysis is as follows:
1. Severity
If a patient with a positive result for Human Papillomavirus Type 18 has had a short infection duration and no cervical lesions have developed, the condition is likely not serious. It is recommended to adjust lifestyle habits, enhance immunity, and undergo regular Pap smears and HPV testing.
If Human Papillomavirus Type 18 persists and is accompanied by cervical intraepithelial neoplasia, the condition is considered serious, and treatment under a doctor's guidance with methods such as laser therapy, cryotherapy, or surgical intervention may be necessary.
2. Treatment Methods
1. General Management
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including regular sleep patterns, balanced nutrition, and appropriate physical activity, can help boost immunity. Practicing good personal hygiene and avoiding unsafe sexual practices also help prevent HPV infection.
2. Medication
Medications such as tretinoin cream, imiquimod cream, and mometasone furoate cream may be used under medical supervision. These medications work by inhibiting viral replication, enhancing immunity, or improving skin lesions.
3. Laser Therapy
Laser therapy uses a focused beam of light to precisely remove abnormal tissue without damaging surrounding healthy tissue. It is an effective treatment for lesions, such as warts, caused by Human Papillomavirus Type 18 infection.
4. Cryotherapy
Cryotherapy involves using extremely low temperatures to freeze and destroy abnormal tissue. It is suitable for superficial and small lesions. This procedure is simple and causes minimal discomfort to the patient.
5. Cervical Conization
If persistent infection with Human Papillomavirus Type 18 leads to cervical intraepithelial neoplasia, patients may undergo procedures such as cervical conization under a physician's guidance to remove the affected tissue.
In daily life, maintaining good personal hygiene and avoiding high-risk sexual behaviors can help reduce the transmission of HPV and lower associated health risks. When undergoing any of the aforementioned procedures, it is recommended to visit a reputable hospital and follow the guidance of a qualified physician to ensure the safety and effectiveness of the treatment.
