Chlamydia and High-Risk HPV: Key Questions Answered

Chlamydia and high-risk HPV?

Hello Doctor, I recently underwent a cervical smear test that indicated inflammation, and I tested positive for Chlamydia DNA and high-risk HPV DNA.
I did not test for low-risk HPV.
I have a few questions:
1.
I have been undergoing treatment for Chlamydia for three weeks and currently have no symptoms.
I had a follow-up test at a private lab where both IgG and IgA were positive, but the DNA in the discharge was negative (using a soft brush).
My attending physician said that since the symptoms have resolved, I am essentially cured and advised against further testing.
Should I consider retesting? Why do I have both positive and negative results?
2.
My boyfriend has no symptoms; does he still need to be tested for Chlamydia and HPV? Should he undergo treatment?
3.
If I have a high-risk HPV infection without any lesions, can it still be transmitted to others?
4.
My last sexual encounter was ten months ago, and I have not developed any warts since then.
Can I rule out an infection? Is there still a risk of transmission to others?
5.
Is it possible for my HPV infection to remain dormant for many years? I have never been tested for HPV before, and I am very anxious about when I might have contracted it.
I also do not want to transmit it to others and cause them distress.
I have read many responses from doctors, which have been comforting.
Although remote consultations can sometimes be difficult to assess, professional insights and care can provide significant reassurance.
Thank you again.

lili520, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/04/08

Dr. Xu Weikai reply Urology

Hello,
1.
Testing is not 100% accurate.
It involves the collection of specimens, the precision of the laboratory procedures, and the competency of the personnel.

2.
If you are concerned, you can get tested.
However, if a male has no symptoms, the likelihood of infection is low.

3.
It can be considered cured.

4.
A small number of cases may remain latent for many years.
Most can be considered cured if there are no symptoms for three months.

I hope the above answers are helpful.
If there are any details that need further clarification, feel free to ask again for further discussion and research.
Online responses should only be used as a reference; if necessary, it is still important to seek medical care at a healthcare facility.

The Ministry of Health and Welfare, Taitung Hospital, cares about you.

Reply Date: 2015/04/08

More Info

Understanding Chlamydia and High-Risk HPV: Key Questions Answered
Dear patient,
Thank you for your thoughtful questions regarding your recent diagnosis of Chlamydia and high-risk HPV. It’s understandable to feel anxious about these infections, especially considering their implications for your health and your partner's health. Let’s address your concerns one by one.

1. Chlamydia Testing and Treatment: You mentioned that you underwent treatment for Chlamydia three weeks ago and that your symptoms have resolved. The presence of positive IgG and IgA antibodies indicates a past infection, while a negative DNA test suggests that the active infection has been cleared. Your doctor is correct in stating that if you are asymptomatic and have a negative DNA test, further testing may not be necessary. The antibodies can remain in your system for some time after the infection has cleared, which is why you might see positive results for IgG and IgA. If you have concerns or if symptoms return, it’s always best to consult your healthcare provider.

2. Testing for Your Partner: Since your boyfriend is asymptomatic, he may not need immediate testing for Chlamydia or HPV. However, it is generally recommended that sexual partners of individuals diagnosed with Chlamydia be tested and treated to prevent reinfection. For HPV, routine screening is not typically performed in men, but if he has any concerns or symptoms, he should consult a healthcare provider.

3. Transmission of High-Risk HPV: High-risk HPV can be transmitted even in the absence of visible symptoms or lesions. While the risk of transmission is lower when there are no active lesions, it is still possible. Regular screenings, such as Pap smears and HPV tests, are crucial for monitoring your cervical health, especially since you have a high-risk HPV type.

4. Time Since Last Sexual Encounter: The fact that you have not developed any visible warts (condyloma) since your last sexual encounter ten months ago is reassuring, but it does not completely rule out the possibility of having HPV. HPV can remain dormant for years without causing any symptoms. Regular follow-up with your healthcare provider is essential for monitoring any changes.

5. Latency of HPV: HPV can indeed remain dormant for many years. It’s not uncommon for individuals to be infected without knowing it, as many types of HPV do not cause any symptoms. This is why regular screenings are important, especially for women, to detect any changes in cervical cells early on.

In summary, it is crucial to maintain open communication with your healthcare provider regarding your health and any concerns you may have. Regular screenings, safe sexual practices, and possibly discussing the HPV vaccine with your partner can help manage your health and reduce the risk of transmission. If you have any further questions or if your situation changes, do not hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider for personalized advice and care.

Wishing you good health and peace of mind.

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