Warts and cancer. The oncogenic potential of human papilloma virus

Papilloma viruses have a potential but seldom expressed carcinogenicity. It is found that the virions are lost in the process of viral oncogenesis and thereafter the electron-microscopy is useless. Only the use of new techniques of molecular hybridization, immunofluorescence for viral antigens and permissive co-cultures may indicate the presence of a viral DNA and will thus enable the identification of neoplasms caused by viruses. Among the papilloma viruses, only the types 3, 5 and 6, responsive for various flat warts and condylomata acuminatum, may be involved with oncogenic activity. The development of viral neoplasma needs also one or more co-carcinogen factors such as ultraviolet and X-rays, and first of all an immune-depressed (naturally or drug-induced) status. Renal transplant recipients, intensively treated with immunodepressants, are highly suggestive for this mechanism. Romania.