Blisters and the Human Papilloma Virus
HPV - Human Papilloma Virus - is the name of a group
of viruses that comprises more than 70 different types.
HPV
is sometimes called the wart
virus -because certain types of HPV cause warts
or blisters on the hands, feet or genitals.
Blisters and the HPV virus are virtually synonymous.
However, it is necessary to remember that the types
of HPV that cause visible blisters on the genitals
(vulva, vagina, penis and scrotum) or anus are different
than those that cause blisters on the hands and feet.
People carrying HPV may have warts that cannot be
seen with the naked eye. Still other types may cause
cells on the cervix or in the anus to change and,
in some cases, such as advanced anal
warts, the condition may develop into cancer over
a long time if left untreated.
Since HPV is a virus, there is no cure. So the risks of getting the blisters again remain. However, new studies indicate that approximately 70-90% of people with HPV may clear the virus from the body within two years of infection. But remember, re-infection is possible.
Do the Presence of Blisters Always Indicate an HPV Virus Infection?
The HPV virus, most often, causes warts and blisters
to appear on different parts of the body, especially
on the genitals of men and women. However, the appearance
of blisters is not absolute proof that you may have
been infected with the HPV virus. Blisters
and warts often appear due to other viral attacks,
such as by the HSV virus (Herpes Simplex Virus). One
type of the virus - Herpes Simplex Virus Type 1 (HSV1)
- can lead to cold sores around the mouth.
The only way to be sure is through a proper clinical examination, which may require a pap smear test.
So What do I do When I Have the Blisters From the HPV Virus?
Medications are used to treat the blisters produced by HPV. They are available in either solutions or cauterization. Following treatment, the warts or blisters should dry up and fall off; this treatment may be repeated weekly if necessary. Sexual partner(s) should be checked by a doctor and treated at the same time. Condoms should be worn by male partners until treatment is complete. HPV identified on a pap smear may be referred for colposcopy.
Avoid sexual contact (oral, vaginal, penile, and/or
anal) if you or your partner(s) have or suspect you
have HPV and develop the blisters. If there are warts
on the penis, condoms should be worn to stop the
blisters from spreading. However, this does not guarantee
that the virus will not spread and the blisters will
go.
It is important to keep regular appointments for treatment. Following initial treatment, return visits are advised only if the blisters are not successfully treated or if the warts return in the future.
How do I Know That the Blisters are From HPV?
The blisters that appear from the HPV virus are prominent
cauliflower-like growths. They can either be smooth
bumps or flat. Some warts are hard and rough while
others are soft and fleshy. These blisters will bleed
easily or itch. Blisters are most common at sites
of friction or rubbing during sex - one of the main
causes
of warts. And if you have them but do not opt
for treatment, then you will notice that the blisters
caused by the HPV virus are actually growing in size.
