HUMAN PAPILLOMAVIRUS AND CUTANEOUS WARTS IN MEAT HANDLERS

The association of papillomavirus and hand warts in meat handlers was examined. Human papillomavirus (HPV) DNA was found in 23 (88%) of 26 c utaneous warts, with HPV 7 (27%) and a yet unidentified HPV (HPV X) (4 2%) being the predominant types. HPV 2 was found in two (7.5%) patient s, and HPV 4 was found in three (11.5%) patients. No bovine papillomav irus sequences were detected. In most patients, the warts developed in less than 2 years after they started working with meat. A possible HP V transmission route by protection gloves and professional equipment i s suggested.