A patient with human papillomavirus (HPV) is most at risk for which condition? Cervical cancer Ovarian cancer Endometrial cancer Toxic shock syndrome (TSS)
The correct answer and explanation is:
The correct answer is Cervical cancer.
Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a viral infection that can lead to several types of cancers, most notably cervical cancer. HPV is a group of more than 200 related viruses, some of which can infect the genital area. Two high-risk strains of HPV, 16 and 18, are strongly associated with the development of cervical cancer. These types of HPV can cause changes in the cells of the cervix that, if left untreated, may progress into cancer over time.
HPV is primarily transmitted through sexual contact. It can also affect the anus, mouth, and throat, but cervical cancer remains the most significant health risk associated with the virus. The virus typically does not cause symptoms, and in most cases, the body’s immune system clears the infection on its own. However, if the infection persists, it can lead to cell mutations in the cervix, which may eventually develop into cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN), a precursor to cervical cancer.
Routine screening through Pap smears (or Pap tests) is key to detecting early changes in cervical cells, allowing for intervention before cancer develops. Additionally, the HPV vaccine has been introduced to prevent infection with the most common high-risk strains of the virus. The vaccine is highly effective in preventing HPV-related cancers, particularly if given before exposure to the virus.
In comparison, ovarian cancer and endometrial cancer are not directly linked to HPV. Ovarian cancer is more often associated with genetic factors, such as mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes. Endometrial cancer is typically related to hormone imbalances, particularly high levels of estrogen. Toxic shock syndrome (TSS) is a rare but serious bacterial infection caused by toxins produced by Staphylococcus aureus or Streptococcus pyogenes, not HPV.