severe HPV - Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Message Board

shanny17 · 02-27-2009, 12:09 PM

If your diagnosed with one of the most severe types of HPV what are the chances it is cured or clears? and it is caught early

LilyL21 · 02-27-2009, 02:16 PM

I'm not sure there's ever been a study to determine the exact percentage, but for most people, HPV, even the high risk varieties clear on their own.

Still, make sure you keep getting checked up!

Pickle Eyes · 02-27-2009, 10:53 PM

Shanny, it depends on what you mean by "clears." The term is used various ways.

One you have been exposed to HPV, you have the virus forever. Many people are able to fight the virus so that it doesn't cause any damage. Some people say this is cleared. Even if someone is able to fight the virus so that it doesn't cause problems he/she still has the virus. It is up for debate (among researchers) as to whether that strain of HPV can reactivate later in life, especially at times of high stress or weaked immune function.

"Clear" (in regards to HPV) does not mean the virus is gone.

luvbug412 · 02-27-2009, 11:03 PM

My gyn basically told me HPV is like chicken pox. The human body never actually removed the virus but it can remain in hibernation after the initial infection. In that way HPV itself is like herpes zoster virus. When you are a kid its chicken pox, when you are an adult - same idea.

Similar herpes zoster impacts nerves cells, HPV on the other hand impacts skin and mucous membranes.

Drafly · 02-28-2009, 10:24 AM

Personally I hate it when a doc uses the word "clears", it gives the impression it is cured or gone for good which isn't the case. Luvbug gave a perfect example with the chicken pox virus. In adults it comes back as shingles, a very painful condition. HPV can remain dormant (in hibernation as she put it) for decades. Unfortunately there is no way to determine whose HPV will go on to produce more severe symptoms and whose won't. That is why you must be ever vigilant for any new lump, bump or lesion you find and get it checked out right away.