[HPV vaccination is important for dermatologists]

Abstract

The quadrivalent prophylactic HPV vaccination against HPV types 6, 11, 16 and 18 is not only highly effective in preventing HPV 16 and 18-associated cervical cancer, precancerous cervical lesions and high-grade precancerous vulvar and vaginal lesions but also against HPV 6 and 11-associated genital warts. Therefore, HPV-vaccination clearly belongs to the dermatologists' field of responsibility. A survey among 770 German dermatologists showed broad acceptance of the HPV vaccination; two-thirds of the persons asked would recommend the vaccination to their patients, regardless of reimbursement or STIKO recommendation, if they are convinced of the medical benefit. The survey also showed that HPV vaccination has not yet been fully established among dermatologists. Taking the high efficacy of the quadrivalent HPV vaccine into account, dermatologists should actively offer the HPV vaccination to their patients. The current AWMF-S3-guideline "Impfprävention HPV-assoziierter Neoplasien"can be used as a decision-making basis.