HPV, or human papilloma virus, is a sexually transmitted virus that is common in both men and women who are sexually active, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. About half of all people who are sexually active will contract HPV at some point in their lives, but in most people the virus will clear up on its own. However, some of the more than 100 types of HPV can lead to more serious health problems.
No Symptoms
In the majority of cases, men with HPV will have no symptoms.
Genital Warts
Some men will develop genital warts, small growths on the penis, testicles, anus, groin or thigh, within a few weeks or months of contact with someone who has HPV.
Penile Cancer
A man can develop penile cancer from an HPV infection, but most infections don't lead to cancer. Penile cancer symptoms include thickening skin or build up of tissue around the penis or a sore on the penis that won't go away.
Anal Cancer
Anal cancer can develop from an HPV infection, although this is not a frequent occurrence. Anal cancer signs include anal bleeding or discharge, swollen lymph nodes in the groin area and changes in the shape of bowel movements or bathroom habits.
Diagnosis
Because many men do not have symptoms of an HPV infection, it often goes undiagnosed. In fact, there is no test to diagnose HPV in men. The presence of genital warts is often the only indication.
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