Human papilloma virus (HPV) vaccine

General information

Cervical cancer is the second most common cause of cancer deaths in women worldwide and the number one cause in the developing world. It is almost invariably associated with HPV infection. HPV type 16 is found in about 50% of cervical cancers. About 70% of cervical cancers are associated with HPV types 16, 18, and 8 other HPV types. Types 18, 31, and 45 account for 25% of HVP-positive tumors. HPV types 6 and 11 can cause benign genital warts. Other types of human papilloma virus, such as types 31, 33, and 45, are involved in the development of less common cancers (oropharyngeal, esophageal, penile, and anal cancers).

Clinical studies with a recombinant vaccine (using Vaccinia virus expressing HPV 16, 18, E6, and E7 proteins) in patients with preinvasive and invasive cancer have been reviewed [ ].