Discovered HPV in the rectum area by colonoscopy - Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Message Board

catlover55 · 09-07-2008, 11:58 AM

I recently went in for a colonoscopy screening and received a telephone call from the gastro md stating that the pathology report came back positive for HPV/wart with dysplagia in the rectum area. I have no idea where it came from as I have never participated in anal sex, so this came out of left field for me and I am still in shock. Not saying I didn't have fun in my younger year's. I am happily married now, but still can't belive that I have to deal with this at this time in my life. I have an appointment with a surgeon tomorrow and do not know what to expect. Has anyone experienced this before? Does this mean I have cancer? Help!

Pickle Eyes · 09-07-2008, 01:10 PM

The strain of HPV that causes genital warts (and the anus can be considered "genital") do not lead to cancer. HPV is transmitted by skin to skin contact. Since there is skin contact with your anus during vaginal intercourse by the scrotum, it is possible to get HPV there even without anal intercourse.

I hope that makes sense.

catlover55 · 09-07-2008, 01:17 PM

Makes sense, but I am disturbed by the dysplacia that the md mentioned and the appt to the surgeon. Is this just to remove the wart? He did menton squamous cell dysplacia, but I was in such shock, I don't know if I interpreted this correctly.

Pickle Eyes · 09-07-2008, 06:35 PM

Hey catlover, warts are caused by low risk HPV. Dysplasia (and cancer if undetected/untreated) is caused by high risk HPV. Low risk HPV do not lead to dysplasia or cancer (as far as I understand).

I suggest you ask for a copy of your pathology report and ask some more questions. It is all so confusing at first.

What kind of surgeon are you going to?

catlover55 · 09-08-2008, 05:35 AM

It is a general surgeon. I see him at 2:30 today and will ask for a copy of the report. Will let you know what is said later. Thanks for info. It helps just to communicate concerns.