Does HPV 16 cause throat or breast cancer?

Question

Hi doctor,

Four years ago, I was diagnosed with cervical dysplasia while pregnant. It was my fourth pregnancy in two years, with the previous three ending in miscarriage. After giving birth, I was tested for high-risk HPV, returned positive for HPV 16, and had a LEEP procedure to remove CIN3 cell changes. Since then, I have had normal PAPS and have tested negative for HPV each time.

I am assuming that this means the virus is dormant. Still, I have been doing a lot of reading about the risk of HPV and other types of cancer, specifically the possible relationship between HPV and breast cancer. What I am interested in knowing is if my PAPS are showing negative HPV results, could the virus still be doing damage elsewhere in my body? For example, could it still produce changes that could lead to throat or breast cancer? Or can I assume that the virus is entirely dormant if my tests continue to be negative? Please let me know your views.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I have read your query thoroughly and understand your concern.

HPV (human papillomavirus) has many types, like 16 and 18 cause cancer of the cervix, six and eleven types cause genital warts, etc. You had a positive cervical smear for herpes, which was treated, and the affected area was also treated. Cervical screening is recommended for a lifetime in the reproductive age group every three years to determine if a recently infected virus has caused harm to the cervix or if a previously diagnosed premalignant condition has become severe enough to require immediate action. The virus type you are afflicted with will cause the adverse effects it is renowned for.Similar to HPV 16 and 18, this virus can injure the cervix and cause cancer of the cervix. However, it does not cause cancer in the breast.

HPV 6 and 11 cause genital warts; hence, they cannot cause cervical or breast cancer. Treated areas are susceptible to reinfection or reactivation of earlier infections that can result in local injury.If there is no laboratory or technical error in sample collection, it is feasible that the virus is dormant if the test repeatedly returns negative results. Breast screening is required separately if you have any suspicious symptoms. Similarly, continue routine cervical screening according to the timetable and in the event of symptoms. Normal BMI (body mass index) requires a nutritious diet, regular exercise, and a daily walk.

Hope this has answered your query.

Regards.