HPV Risks from Oral Sex: Key Questions Answered

Q: HPV Risks from Oral Sex: Key Questions Answered

Hello, the inquirer： For oral infections, you can consult an otolaryngologist or a family medicine physician for an oral examination. <br>Conditions such as nasal papilloma, dysplasia, and cancers (HPV types 6, 11, and 57); oral papillomas, warts, and common warts (HPV types 6 an

Oral sex and HPV-related issues?

Hello Doctor: After researching, I understand that sexual activity can lead to HPV infection, and oral sex may also result in oral HPV infection, potentially leading to oral cancer.
I would like to ask the following questions:
1.
If I have undergone an HPV test and a Pap smear and found no HPV infection, does that also indicate that there is no oral HPV infection?
2.
What types of HPV can infect the oral cavity?
3.
If I want to confirm whether there is an HPV infection in the oral cavity, what testing options are available?
4.
Which medical specialty should I consult to confirm an oral HPV infection?
5.
If I have been infected with a certain HPV type and have cleared the infection, is there still a possibility of being reinfected with the same type?
6.
If I have completed the full three doses of the quadrivalent HPV vaccine, what is the likelihood of oral infection?
Thank you in advance for your response!

Niming, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/03/12

Dr. Zhang Kunmin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, the inquirer: For oral infections, you can consult an otolaryngologist or a family medicine physician for an oral examination.
Conditions such as nasal papilloma, dysplasia, and cancers (HPV types 6, 11, and 57); oral papillomas, warts, and common warts (HPV types 6 and 11); localized epidermal hyperplasia in the oral cavity (HPV types 13 and 32); and verrucous lesions on the lips (HPV type 2) can be assessed.
Papillomas can be found in 25-35% of oral cancers, and HPV-7 is often present among them.
The same type of HPV can cause reinfection.
Currently available HPV vaccines, whether bivalent, quadrivalent, or nonavalent, provide protection against high-risk oncogenic HPV types 16 and 18, which can prevent 66% of cervical cancers and 60% of HPV-related oropharyngeal cancers, although they do not provide complete prevention.
Thank you! Wishing you peace and health.
Dr.
Zhang

Reply Date: 2019/03/12

More Info

Understanding the risks associated with HPV (Human Papillomavirus) transmission through oral sex is crucial, especially given the potential for serious health outcomes such as oral and oropharyngeal cancers. Here’s a comprehensive response to your questions regarding HPV and oral sex.

1. If I have tested negative for HPV and had a Pap smear that shows no signs of infection, does that mean my oral cavity is also free of HPV?
While a negative HPV test and Pap smear indicate that there is no detectable HPV in the cervix, it does not necessarily guarantee that the oral cavity is free from HPV. HPV can infect different anatomical sites independently. Therefore, a negative result in cervical testing does not imply a negative status in the oral cavity.

2. What types of HPV can infect the oral cavity?
The most common HPV types associated with oral infections are HPV-16 and HPV-18, which are also linked to cervical cancer. Other types, such as HPV-6 and HPV-11, are associated with benign lesions like warts (condylomas). HPV-16 is particularly concerning as it has been implicated in oropharyngeal cancers.

3. What are the testing options to confirm if there is an HPV infection in the oral cavity?
Currently, there is no standardized test for HPV in the oral cavity like there is for cervical screening. However, a healthcare provider may perform a visual examination of the oral cavity and throat for lesions or abnormalities. In some cases, a biopsy of suspicious lesions may be conducted, followed by HPV typing through laboratory analysis.

4. Which medical specialty should I consult to check for oral HPV infection?
You should consult an Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) specialist, also known as an otolaryngologist. They are trained to evaluate and manage conditions related to the head and neck, including potential HPV-related lesions in the oral cavity and throat.

5. If I have previously been infected with a specific HPV type and have cleared the infection, is there still a possibility of reinfection with the same type?
Yes, it is possible to be reinfected with the same type of HPV even after clearing an initial infection. HPV does not confer long-lasting immunity, which means that individuals can be susceptible to reinfection.

6. If I have received the complete three-dose series of the quadrivalent HPV vaccine, does that reduce my risk of oral HPV infection?
The quadrivalent HPV vaccine protects against HPV types 6, 11, 16, and 18. While it significantly reduces the risk of infections and related diseases caused by these types, it does not eliminate the risk entirely. Therefore, while vaccination lowers the likelihood of contracting HPV, it does not completely prevent the possibility of oral HPV infection.

In summary, while HPV can be transmitted through oral sex and can lead to serious health issues, understanding your HPV status and taking preventive measures is essential. Regular screenings, vaccinations, and consultations with healthcare professionals can help manage and mitigate the risks associated with HPV. If you have further concerns or symptoms, it is advisable to seek medical attention promptly.

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