Papillomavirus, also known as HPV, is a group of viruses that can cause growths, or papillomas, on the skin and mucous membranes of the body Papillomaviruses are members of the family of viruses known as Papovaviridae and belong to the subfamily of viruses known as Papovavirinae. Papillomaviruses are highly host-specific, meaning that each virus is only capable of infecting certain types of cells, usually within a single species. In humans, HPV is common and is often spread through skin-to-skin contact during sexual intercourse.
The majority of HPV infections do not cause any symptoms and are cleared from the body by the immune system. However, some types of HPV can cause genital warts or cervical cancer. Vaccines are available to protect against the types of HPV that cause cervical cancer and genital warts.
The five best examples of papillomaviruses in humans are:
1. HPV16: This type of HPV is responsible for almost half of all cases of cervical cancer. It can also cause genital warts and other types of cancers.
2. HPV18: This type of HPV is responsible for a significant portion of cervical cancer cases. It can also cause other types of cancers, including cancer of the vulva and anus.
3. HPV6 and 11: These types of HPV are responsible for most cases of genital warts.
4. HPV31, 33, 45, 52 and 58: These types of HPV are responsible for most cases of non-cancerous genital lesions.
5. HPV 5: This type of HPV is associated with skin warts, including plantar warts.
In conclusion, papillomaviruses are a group of viruses that can cause growths, or papillomas, on the skin and mucous membranes of the body. They are responsible for a variety of conditions, including cervical cancer, genital warts, and other types of cancers. Five of the best examples of papillomaviruses in humans are HPV16, HPV18, HPV6 and 11, HPV31, 33, 45, 52 and 58, and HPV5. Vaccines are available to protect against the types of HPV that cause cervical cancer and genital warts.