HPV Management

Maryland Specialty Group (MDSG) offers HPV management services for women throughout the Glendale, Maryland, area, drawing from extensive experience in patient care and HPV management techniques. As a board-certified gynecologist, MDSG has advanced training in the diagnosis and treatment of HPV and other gynecological conditions.

What is HPV and how is it contracted?

HPV stands for human papillomavirus, and it’s the virus that’s responsible for most cases of cervical cancer. It spreads through skin-to-skin contact with someone who has the virus. To date, about 100 types of HPV viruses have been detected and identified. About a third of these types can affect both male and female genitalia. These types are most commonly spread through vaginal, anal or oral sex. Some types of HPV can cause genital warts. HPV is extremely common, and most men and women become infected with the virus at some point in their lives; however, in most people, the virus does not cause any symptoms or health effects.

How is HPV diagnosed?

HPV can be diagnosed in three ways:
by microscopic examination of cervical cells removed during a Pap test; this exam looks for cellular changes associated with the virus;
by using a specially designed DNA test that uses a sample of cervical cells to look for the virus’ genetic material;
or through a simple procedure called a colposcopy, a test that uses a special light to detect HPV on the surface of a woman’s cervix.
Currently, there is no blood test to detect HPV.

How can HPV be treated?

Although there is no cure for HPV, it can be managed with a variety of treatments. In many cases, the body’s own immune system can be used to clear the virus form the body; in other cases where the virus is more stubborn, MDSG can perform treatments that help relieve symptoms, such as removing warts or abnormal cells in the cervix using simple in-office procedures or prescription creams. Each HPV management plan is based on individual patient needs to achieve the best results possible.