Browsing by Author "Sjöberg, Nicolas"

Abstract Background Human papillomavirus is a common cause of infections that can clinically present as papillomas or warts. These benign lesions can be treated with different ablative methods, producing surgical plume that might contain infectious viral particles. Aims Our aim is to evaluate the current literature regarding the presence of HPV in laser plume in the occupational setting, and whether the risk for HPV infections in healthcare personnel is increased. Methods A systematic search according to PRISMA guidelines was made on PubMed that was complemented with a manual search of bibliographies from relevant articles. Results In this literature review we examined 27 original articles including case studies, animal models, questionnaires and clinical studies. Conclusion Based on the literature HPV DNA seems to be present in the surgical plume. Although the infective potential of the plume for healthcare personnel is controversial we recommend the usage of N95, or similar masks, to filter out viral particles from the inhaled air. The research regarding dissemination of viral particles from the patients on equipment and other surfaces is still sparse, but rigorous cleaning and careful disposal of personal protective equipment can be recommended.