HPV & Anal Dysplasia

What are HPV and anal dysplasia?

HPV is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by human papillomavirus. While there are more than 100 types of HPV, about 30 strains can affect the genitals – including the:

• Penis
• Scrotum
• Vagina
• Vulva
• Cervix
• Anus
• Rectum

Some HPV strains can cause genital and anal warts or increase the risk of cancer.

Anal dysplasia involves changes in cells in the anus that could become cancerous when left untreated. Researchers think that HPV variants cause almost all cases of anal dysplasia. 

What are the symptoms of HPV and anal dysplasia?

Anal dysplasia symptoms resulting from HPV infection may include:

• Anal bleeding
• Anail itching
• Pain in the anus
• Bumps, lumps, or growths in the anus (anal warts)

However, many people with anal dysplasia don’t have symptoms and don’t realize they have the condition. 

A physical exam and testing can detect abnormal cell changes in individuals at risk of anal HPV.

What are the risk factors for HPV and anal dysplasia?

Examples of HPV and anal dysplasia risk factors include:

• Smoking
• Anal sex
• Sex with many partners
• Chronic anal irritation
• Anal fistula
• Benign anal lesions
• Cervical, vaginal, vulvar, or penis cancer
• Weakened immune system
• Being female
• Being over 50
• Contracting specific strains of HPV
• HIV
• Autoimmune conditions
• Medications that weaken the immune system

Maintaining healthy lifestyle habits and using safe sex practices reduces the risk of contracting HPV. Using a condom, limiting sex partners, routine STD testing, and getting the HPV vaccination can help. However, HPV can still spread when using condoms, as the virus can reach areas not covered by the condom.

How are HPV and anal dysplasia diagnosed?

Diagnosing anal dysplasia caused by HPV requires a physical exam, digital rectal exam, and anal Pap smear — an anal swab that obtains a sample of cells. 

You might need a biopsy, CT scan, or anoscopy — a diagnostic procedure that uses a small tube with a light to view the inside of the anus and rectum.

Is there a treatment for HPV and anal dysplasia?

Treatment for HPV and anal dysplasia varies by the type and severity of your condition. Low-grade dysplasia may warrant watchful waiting. Sometimes, it resolves without treatment. 

The Tri-CIty Colo-Rectal Surgery team can eliminate precancerous cells from your anus using various methods, such as trichloroacetic acid, laser treatment, electrocautery, or surgery.

Schedule an HPV and anal dysplasia evaluation at Tri-City Colo-Rectal Surgery by calling the office or requesting an appointment online today.