Can You Still Test Positive for HPV After Previous Warts Treatment?

Is it still possible to test positive after having had warts?

Hello doctor, I had warts two years ago, and they have healed after using medication.
I haven't had any recurrences.
If I go to the hospital for a rapid test, will there still be a positive reaction for warts?

Mr. Lin, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/05/19

Dr. Xu Wencang reply Urology

Unable to perform blood tests, but still requires detailed monitoring for any recurrence.

Reply Date: 2017/05/19

More Info

When it comes to HPV (human papillomavirus) and its association with genital warts (also known as condylomata acuminata), it's important to understand the nature of the virus and how it behaves in the body.
Firstly, HPV is a viral infection that can remain dormant in the body for long periods. Even after successful treatment of visible warts, the virus can still be present in a latent form. This means that while the warts may have disappeared and you may not have any symptoms, the virus could still be detectable in your body.
1. Testing After Treatment: If you were treated for genital warts two years ago and have not had any recurrences, it is possible that you could still test positive for HPV, particularly if the strain that caused your warts is still present in your system. Most HPV tests focus on high-risk strains associated with cervical cancer, but some tests can detect low-risk strains that cause warts. If you undergo a screening test, it may still show a positive result for HPV, even if you do not have any visible warts.

2. Immune Response: Many individuals with HPV will clear the virus naturally over time due to their immune system's response. Studies suggest that about 70-90% of HPV infections are cleared by the immune system within two years. However, this varies from person to person. If you have not had any symptoms or visible warts for two years, it is possible that your body has cleared the virus, but this is not guaranteed.

3. Future Testing: If you choose to get tested, the results will depend on the type of test performed. A Pap smear or HPV test may show the presence of the virus, but it does not necessarily indicate that you are contagious or that you will have a recurrence of warts. If you test positive for HPV after treatment, it is important to discuss with your healthcare provider what this means for your health and any necessary follow-up actions.

4. Preventive Measures: If you have not already done so, consider getting the HPV vaccine. The vaccine is effective in preventing the strains of HPV that are most commonly associated with genital warts and cervical cancer. Even if you have been previously infected with one strain, the vaccine can still protect against other strains you may not have encountered.

5. Monitoring and Follow-Up: Regular follow-up with your healthcare provider is essential, especially if you have a history of HPV-related issues. They may recommend periodic screenings to monitor for any changes or recurrences.

In conclusion, while it is possible to test positive for HPV after treatment for genital warts, it does not necessarily mean that you are still contagious or that you will experience further outbreaks. The best course of action is to maintain open communication with your healthcare provider, who can guide you through the testing process and help you understand your results in the context of your overall health.

Similar Q&A

Understanding HPV Positive Results: What to Do After Previous Warts Treatment

Hello, doctor. About ten years ago, I underwent electrosurgery for genital warts. My memory is a bit hazy, and I also used a self-paid ointment specifically for warts. After that, I did not experience any recurrence. In the past year, I completed the nine-valent HPV vaccine serie...

Dr. Cai Zhuorong reply Urology
If the test is for antibodies, it is possible. The virus can remain dormant and may suddenly reactivate after several years without symptoms. However, please do not worry, as the transmission rate is very low in the absence of symptoms.

What Does Blood Testing Reveal After Gynecological Procedures?

Last time, I went to the gynecology department for laser treatment for genital warts. After the surgery, I had a blood test a week later, and the results were normal. I was wondering if the tests included screening for syphilis and HIV? What exactly was tested in the blood work? ...

Dr. Huang Yiwen reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello Tainan girl: You have genital warts, and the doctor will perform a blood test, which may also check for other sexually transmitted infections. For detailed information on what will be examined, you should ask your doctor for clarification. Genital warts can easily recur, so...

Where to Get Tested for HPV After Treatment: A Guide

Doctor, I have genital warts and I am currently undergoing treatment with Chinese medicine and topical ointments. Where should I go to get tested to see if the HPV virus is still present?

Dr. Xu Wencang reply Urology
Human papillomavirus (HPV) cannot be detected through a blood test; it can only be diagnosed through local tissue examination. A follow-up outpatient visit is necessary for physician evaluation.

Why Do Genital Warts Recur After Treatment? Understanding HPV Risks

Hello doctor, last November I experienced itching in the genital area and discovered that I had growths near my anus and genital area, which were diagnosed as genital warts through a biopsy. At that time, most of the lesions were located on the sides of my labia, with one side ha...

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology
Hello: HPV virus testing can be referenced, and it's not very difficult to say that it is not present; this is a characteristic of warts. There are many types of HPV viruses, and you can look them up online. It is generally not possible to test for all types, and there may a...