Dallas
214-456-9099
Fax: 214-456-2230
Plano
469-497-2501
Fax: 469-497-2507
Pediatric human papillomavirus (pap·il·lo·ma·vi·rus) or HPV is the most common sexually transmitted infection (STI), according to the Centers for Disease Control(CDC). It can cause genital warts and certain types of cancer.
Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a widespread, sexually transmitted infection (STI). It has become well-known due to its link to cervical cancer. While not every child with HPV will develop cervical cancer, HPV increases the risk.
The main feature of HPV is genital warts, but not all children will develop them. Even though HPV is called an STI, it can be transmitted through non-sexual routes like hand to hand contact, or from mother to child during a vaginal delivery, for example.
Warts are the most frequently occurring symptom of HPV; however, most HPV infections will not cause symptoms.
In children and adolescents, if there is a concern for a wart, an examination in the office will the first step in the evaluation of this condition.
The HPV infection is primarily spread through skin-to-skin contact.
There are several risk factors that increase the chance of a child getting a HPV infection:
This condition can be treated with observation, with various creams or ointments to be placed on the wart, or with surgery. Your provider will help determine what is best for your child.