2020–2021 BCSC Basic and Clinical Science Course™
1 Update on General Medicine
Chapter 12: Preventive Medicine
Immunization
Human Papillomavirus
The human papillomavirus (HPV) is a sexually transmitted virus that causes anal and genital warts (condylomata). More importantly, HPV is present in 90% of all cervical cancers in women and is a leading cause of penile and anal cancer in men. It is hoped that preventing HPV infection will significantly reduce the incidence of cervical and other gynecologic cancers. HPV vaccines do not eradicate existing viral disease, so they are most effective if given before the patient becomes sexually active. The 9-valent HPV vaccine is given in a series of 3 doses over a 6-month period, beginning at age 11–12 years in boys and girls. Catch-up doses can be given up to age 21 years in men or age 26 years in women or in men who have sexual intercourse with other men.
Excerpted from BCSC 2020-2021 series: Section 1 - Update on General Medicine. For more information and to purchase the entire series, please visit https://www.aao.org/bcsc.