Human papillomavirus infections: epidemiology, pathogenesis, and host immune response.

Human papillomaviruses (HPVs) are ubiquitous and often cause lesions on the skin that come to the attention of the dermatologist. Skin lesions, or warts, often occur on the hands or soles of the feet and can cause embarrassment or discomfort. Genital HPV infections are transmitted by sexual contact. Infections associated with some HPV types have a high risk of progressing to carcinoma. This review discusses the molecular biology and genetics of human papillomaviruses and provides an overview of the virology, pathology, clinical manifestations, and host immune response to infection.