Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Infection More than 100 types of HPV
exist, more than 40 of which can infect the genital area. Most
HPV infections are asymptomatic, unrecognized, or subclinical.
Oncogenic, or high-risk HPV types (e.g., HPV types 16 and 18),
are the cause of cervical cancers. These HPV types are also
associated with other anogenital cancers in men and women,
including penile, vulvar, vaginal, and anal cancer, as well a
subset of oropharyngeal cancers (404). Nononcogenic, or low-risk
HPV types (e.g., HPV types 6 and 11), are the cause of genital
warts and recurrent respiratory papillomatosis. Asymptomatic
genital HPV infection is common and usually self-limited; it is
estimated that more than 50% of sexually active persons become
infected at least once in their lifetime (405). Persistent
oncogenic HPV infection is the strongest risk factor for
development of precancers and cancers. HPV tests are available
for women aged >30 years undergoing cervical cancer screening.
These tests should not be used f