BACKGROUND/AIMS

Genital human papillomavirus (HPV) infection is one of the most common sexually transmitted diseases. This study purposed to evaluate the psychosocial effects of long-term genital HPV infection.

MATERIAL and METHODS

Overall, 77 male patients with genital HPV infection were included. The Dermatological Life Quality Index (DLQI), State-Trait Anxiety Inventory scales (STAI 1-2), and the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) were used to assess the psychological burden of patients. In addition, they were evaluated by a psychiatrist.

RESULTS

The mean age was 37.68±11.67. The mean duration of the disease was 9.74±7.76 months. Overall, 51 patients (66.2%) had more than five lesions. The mean score of the DLQI scale was noted to be 4.58±4.42. Most patients (26; 33.8%) were classified as “small effect on patient’s life,” at a score of 2-5. STAI-1 mean score was 41.74±11.77. Thirty-eight patients (49.4%) were noted to be highly anxious. According to the STAI-2 scale, the mean score was 42.69±9.71, and most patients (40; 51.9%) were noted to be highly anxious. The mean score of BDI was 16.43±11.929, and 27 patients (35.1%) were noted to be moderately depressive. The psychiatrist assessed 14 patients (18.2%) as needing psychiatric medication.

CONCLUSION

Generally, patients suffering from genital HPV for longer than 3 months are affected negatively psychosocially. Therefore, physicians should approach the patient with kindness, compassion, and patience. In addition, an expert psychiatrist’s support should be sought if necessary.

Keywords: Dermatology life quality index, human papillomavirus, psychosocial effects