Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is the most common sexually transmitted infection, with nearly all sexually active individuals being exposed at some point in their lives. There are over 100 types of HPV, with about 40 types affecting the genital area. These are categorized into low-risk types that can cause genital warts and high-risk types that can lead to cervical, vulvar, vaginal, and other cancers. Most HPV infections are asymptomatic and clear spontaneously within two years due to the body's immune response.

Low-risk HPV types, particularly types 6 and 11, are responsible for approximately 90% of genital warts. These appear as small, flesh-colored or gray growths in the genital area and can vary in size and appearance. While genital warts are not dangerous, they can cause psychological distress and may interfere with sexual activity. High-risk HPV types, especially types 16 and 18, are responsible for about 70% of cervical cancers and can also cause other anogenital and oropharyngeal cancers.

HPV testing is typically performed in conjunction with Pap smears in women over 30 or as a follow-up for abnormal Pap results in younger women. The test detects the presence of high-risk HPV types and helps guide management decisions for cervical cancer screening. For genital warts, diagnosis is usually made through visual examination, though biopsy may be necessary in unclear cases. It's important to note that there is no routine HPV test for men, and the infection often goes undetected in male partners.

Prevention of HPV infection is best achieved through vaccination, which is recommended for both males and females beginning at ages 11-12, though it can be given as early as age 9 and up to age 26 (and sometimes older). The vaccine protects against the most common high-risk and low-risk HPV types. Treatment for genital warts includes topical medications, cryotherapy, laser therapy, or surgical removal. For high-risk HPV infections, management focuses on monitoring and treating any precancerous changes that may develop through regular Pap smears and colposcopy when indicated.