The benefits of HPV vaccination beyond prophylaxis.

Vaccination against human papillomavirus (HPV) was introduced into clinical practice as the most effective strategy for primary prevention of cervical cancer and HPV-induced benign or premalignant lesions. It has been demonstrated that not only adolescents but also adults respond positively to vaccine immune stimulation. A history of abnormal Pap test and genital warts or HPV infection may reduce the efficacy of vaccination, but does not contraindicate it. HPV vaccination increases the magnitude and quality of natural immunity. Radical treatments of cervical lesions do not ensure the elimination of HPV infection. Using the vaccine without the surgical removal of the HPV lesion is useless. However, combining surgical treatment and HPV vaccination can play a crucial role in reducing recurrences. Evidence supports the fact that universal vaccination, of both men and women, from adolescence to 45-50 years old, would represent the optimal modality to control HPV infection-related diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]