What Are The Chances Of HPV After Cauterization In Anal Area?

Posted on Thu, 12 Mar 2015

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Thu, 12 Mar 2015 Answered on

Sat, 28 Mar 2015 Last reviewed on

Question : I am 50 year male had a colonoscopy and a polp was discovered that was hpv. I know I received the infection approximately 6-8 months before. The surgeon said he cauterized the entire area well. It is now two years later and I am going for a follow up colposcopy. THe intial doctor said that test around the area was negative but there were abnormal cells around the polp.
Now will I always have to be on guard for anal cancer Ive read some many conflicting stories, The surgeon said I would be fine. If I do not do anything that would allow reinfection will my immune system get rid of the virus.

Answered by Dr. Monish De (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
No chance of anal cancer

Detailed Answer:
Hi

Since your surgeon cauterized the entire area well where the polyp was discovered which had the HPV infection i do not think you need to worry.

Most HPV infections occur without any symptoms and go away within 1 to 2 years and do not cause anal cancer.

These transient infections may cause cytologic abnormalities or abnormal cell changes that go away on their own.

But those HPV infections which persist for many years can lead to more serious cytologic abnormalities or lesions that if untreated may progress to anal cancer.

If you do not do anything allowing a reinfection of the virus then your immune system will automatically get rid of the virus and since the test around the area was negative i do not think you have chances of anal cancer.

Regards

DR DE

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Pradeep Vitta