[Papillomaviruses and genital cancer: the value of detection and eradication]

Human viruses (especially papillomavirus type 16, 18, 33, herpesvirus type 2 and cytomegalovirus) are implicated in malignant transformation, particularly in cervical cancer. Screening and treatment of male partners are mandatory not only for the patient but also for epidemiological purposes, including prevention of cervical carcinoma. Careful examination with a magnifying glass of the anogenital skin and mucosa of the male partner is performed after application of 5% acetic acid in water and small reacting areas can be treated more accurately. The hypothesis of a viral role in the development of urothelial tumors is supported by various recent observation, although similar conclusions cannot currently be drawn for prostatic carcinoma.