HPV DNA vs. Pathology: Which Test Should You Trust for Recovery?

Q: HPV DNA vs. Pathology: Which Test Should You Trust for Recovery?

Hello： If the pathological examination confirms the diagnosis, and the HPV DNA test is negative, it is considered normal. <br>However, you should monitor for any recurrence of lesions and seek medical attention if they appear. <br>Additionally, it is essential for your sexual par

Which should be considered as the standard, HPV DNA testing or pathological examination?

Hello, I had surgery to remove warts in May.
Initially, the doctor believed it was not warts based on visual examination, but the pathology report later confirmed it was warts.
Three months later, I underwent HPV DNA testing every month, all of which were negative, and the doctor informed me that I have healed.
However, I did not receive any other treatment.

1.
Is this truly considered healed?
2.
Which is more definitive, HPV DNA testing or pathology examination?
3.
How long should I continue regular follow-ups?

ADSL, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/01/09

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology

Hello: If the pathological examination confirms the diagnosis, and the HPV DNA test is negative, it is considered normal.
However, you should monitor for any recurrence of lesions and seek medical attention if they appear.
Additionally, it is essential for your sexual partner to see a physician for evaluation and confirmation, as untreated partners can transmit the infection back to you.

Reply Date: 2017/01/09

More Info

When it comes to understanding the relationship between HPV DNA testing and pathology results, it's essential to recognize the distinct roles each plays in the diagnosis and management of HPV-related conditions, such as genital warts (also known as condylomata acuminata) and cervical dysplasia.

1. Are You Truly Cured?
Based on your description, if you had surgery to remove the warts and subsequent HPV DNA tests returned negative, it suggests that the HPV infection may have been cleared from your system. The body has a remarkable ability to clear HPV infections, particularly in younger individuals with healthy immune systems. However, it is crucial to note that while the absence of HPV DNA indicates that the virus is not currently detectable, it does not guarantee that the virus is permanently gone. HPV can remain dormant in the body and may reactivate later. Therefore, while your current status appears to indicate recovery, ongoing vigilance is necessary.

2. Which Test Should You Trust: HPV DNA or Pathology?
Both HPV DNA testing and pathology (biopsy) serve important but different purposes. HPV DNA testing is a molecular test that detects the presence of the virus in the cells, indicating whether you have an active infection. In contrast, pathology involves examining tissue samples under a microscope to identify any cellular changes or abnormalities, such as dysplasia or cancer. In your case, the pathology confirmed the presence of warts, while the HPV DNA tests indicate that the virus is currently undetectable. Generally, pathology results are considered definitive for diagnosing tissue changes, while HPV DNA tests are useful for screening and monitoring the presence of the virus. Therefore, both tests are valuable, but pathology results should take precedence when assessing tissue health.

3. How Often Should You Follow Up?
The frequency of follow-up testing can depend on several factors, including your age, medical history, and the specific recommendations of your healthcare provider. After treatment for HPV-related conditions, it is often recommended to have follow-up examinations every 6 to 12 months, especially if you have a history of high-grade lesions or recurrent warts. Regular Pap smears and HPV testing are essential for monitoring cervical health, particularly for women. If you have had a history of VIN (vulvar intraepithelial neoplasia) or other HPV-related conditions, your healthcare provider may suggest more frequent monitoring.

In conclusion, while your negative HPV DNA tests are encouraging and suggest that you may have cleared the infection, it is essential to continue monitoring your health through regular check-ups and follow-ups with your healthcare provider. Both HPV DNA testing and pathology are important tools in managing HPV-related conditions, and understanding their roles can help you make informed decisions about your health. Always consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice and recommendations based on your specific situation.

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