Treatment for HPV Genotype 18 Positive

The Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is one of the most widespread sexually transmitted infections currently in society. Here, I will present advancements and updates on how to treat HPV genotype 18 positive.

You may be wondering, what’s so special about HPV 18? The thing is, this virus has over 200 variants, some of which are low-risk and others high-risk. Strain 18 falls within the riskier ones.

The danger of having HPV genotype 18 positive lies in the possibility of presenting precancerous lesions, and if these are not addressed, they can lead to cellular alterations and cancer.

Of course, various scientific committees are working to promote more advanced solutions or treatments to minimize these risks. While traditional medicine cannot cure HPV, there are measures that help maintain quality of life and prevention.

Treatments for HPV Genotype 18 Positive

Treatment for HPV is based on the symptoms being presented, and in the case of strain 18, it can cause lesions but internally in the genitals.

Therefore, the treatment isn’t usually the same as that applied to remove warts on external genitals, like laser therapy or cryotherapy. However, in recent years, intralesional immunotherapy has become significant.

Similarly, imiquimod has also shown good results, as has photodynamic therapy. I will introduce some recent advancements and clinical benefits of the most sought-after treatments.

Imiquimod

It is a drug formulated for topical application, commonly found in 2.5% creams. However, in countries like the United States, it has started to be used at 3.75%, specifically for external anogenital lesions.

One of the trade names for this drug is Zyclara, doctors suggest daily application for a span of 8 weeks. A study found it to have a 37% efficacy rate in clearing these lesions.

But, when does Imiquimod take effect? According to studies, lesions completely remit within 8 weeks. Keep in mind that you should follow this treatment as instructed by your doctor.

Furthermore, it has been determined that Imiquimod at 3.75% is a much more effective formulation, as established in a couple of studies.

It is also an efficient and very safe formulation, with reduced adverse reactions showing greater tolerance.

Intralesional Immunotherapy

The efficacy of this treatment is related to the intention to promote delayed sensitivity to various antigens including HPV, urging the body to produce cells that attack this virus.

A single application to a lesion can even show improvements in distant lesions.

In short, it seeks to better prepare the body to combat this virus and its negative effects, although it does not prevent reinfection or achieve absolute eradication.

These were some tips to help you know how to deal with HPV. However, there is much more you need to do if you really want to get rid of HPV and warts forever.

What you need to do is GET RID OF THE ROOT of the problem.

For that reason, I recommend you to look into Dr. Kirkland's story and how he was able to cure HPV and get rid of warts for good.

Click here to see what he did

Prophylactic Vaccines

For HPV 18, the bivalent vaccine is ideal. But how do these vaccines work?

They operate by administering components lacking genetic material, made up of a purified portion of the virus developed through genetic modification.

Thus, the vaccine induces a humoral immune response, significantly increasing antibody production. Remember, at least 3 doses of the vaccine are needed.

Sinecatechins (polyphenon E)

Compounds from green tea leaves, or Camellia sinensis, have shown a high degree of efficacy in boosting the immune system, benefiting HPV treatment.

Studies on the application of Polyphenon E have shown positive results, mainly due to the presence of epigallocatechin which influences cell signaling improvements.

Additionally, through a complex process, it manages to inhibit HPV transcription, increasing cellular immunity.

This can also help remove lesions, and there are even ointments with Sinecatechins used in the treatment of anogenital warts. The treatment is extensive, lasting at least 16 weeks and requires an application three times a day.

When do we see the effects of this product? For ointments, improvements in the skin are estimated to appear after three weeks.

In summary, this is one of the best treatments for HPV genotype 18 because it has antiviral and antineoplastic effects. However, few studies validate its use or efficacy on internal warts.

Photodynamic Therapy

It focuses on the immune response that arises after tissue destruction, occurring from a phototoxic stimulation. The good news about this treatment is its effectiveness in HPV 18 cases.

Photodynamic therapy is useful in cases where the body hasn’t had a good immune response, even with recurrent lesions.

Moreover, its positive effects have been proven in high-risk cases where even vulvar neoplasia occurred. Therefore, for cancer prevention, it’s a promising option.

For this therapy in cases of external genital warts, the suggestion is to have two sessions, after which improvements should be noticeable. Side effects include pain sensations after treatment.

What does having HPV 18 mean for my health?

It means you carry a high-risk virus that can lead to the production of precancerous lesions, such as glandular lesions that may later result in cervical cancer.

Remember, this doesn’t mean the absolute risk or probability is of having cancer, but HPV 18 constitutes at least 12% of this risk, and the danger increases if lesions are not treated.

Lastly… what should you do if you have HPV?