Pathobiology of human papillomavirus.

Human papillomavirus (HPV) has long been recognized as the etiologic agent of skin and genital warts, and only recently has an oncogenic role been attributed to the virus. This article discusses the classification, genetics, and pathogenesis of HPV. HPV detection, epidemiology of HPV and cervical neoplasia, and HPV infections in the genital tract are also reviewed.