Interleukins in the Pathogenesis of Warts: Insight from the Last Decade-A Narrative Review

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is the etiological agent of a wide spectrum of diseases, from benign lesions to neoplasms. In most cases, in the first few years after infection, viral clearance occurs; however, in some cases, the infection remains persistent, allowing the progression of the lesions. The host immune response plays a key role in the resolution of the infection. The immune response to HPV is regulated by the dynamic interaction between numerous interleukins that exert pro- or anti-inflammatory effects. The role of interleukins in malignant lesions caused by HPV has been intensively studied, but in the case of benign lesions including warts, data are limited. This review compiles data from the last 10 years on the involvement of interleukins in the pathogenesis of warts, with the aim of providing new perspectives on this topic. Elucidating the role of interleukins will not only increase our knowledge of the pathogenesis of HPV infection but will also provide the foundation for the development of new therapies.