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How Long Does The HPV Virus That Causes Genital Warts Last?
How long does the HPV virus that causes genital warts last? Some DRs told me the growths were SKs but my dermatologist is airing on the side of caution and treating them like warts. I have been married and monogamous for over 6 years (had those the whole time and even before her). Do I need to contact the people I slept with over 6 years ago?
You have HPV virus and genital warts. Human papillomavirus virus can survive in body for years. HPV occurs mostly on the ano-genital region and can resolve spontaneously within 3-6 months. How long will HPV virus will last depend on your immunity response and what type of warts you have, it has been seen that cutaneous warts can last up to 2 years.
Take immunity boosters, immune system produces antibodies which clear the virus within 1 to 2 years. In some people the infection is totally asymptomatic. Transmission commonly takes place when the infection is active. You need not contact the people you slept with over 6yrs if you are in monogamous relationship.
You and your present partner should get tested to stay on the safer side. If infection is found to be active, then both the partners need to be treated. Topically it is treated with Salicylic acid or Imiquimod cream. A thin layer can be applied on the affected area after sensitivity testing. Surgical treatment is by electrocautery, cryosurgery, laser surgery, removal by surgery.
Take care. Hope I have answered your question. Let me know if I can assist you further.
Regards,
Dr. Nupur K., General & Family Physician
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How Long Does The HPV Virus That Causes Genital Warts Last?
Hello, You have HPV virus and genital warts. Human papillomavirus virus can survive in body for years. HPV occurs mostly on the ano-genital region and can resolve spontaneously within 3-6 months. How long will HPV virus will last depend on your immunity response and what type of warts you have, it has been seen that cutaneous warts can last up to 2 years. Take immunity boosters, immune system produces antibodies which clear the virus within 1 to 2 years. In some people the infection is totally asymptomatic. Transmission commonly takes place when the infection is active. You need not contact the people you slept with over 6yrs if you are in monogamous relationship. You and your present partner should get tested to stay on the safer side. If infection is found to be active, then both the partners need to be treated. Topically it is treated with Salicylic acid or Imiquimod cream. A thin layer can be applied on the affected area after sensitivity testing. Surgical treatment is by electrocautery, cryosurgery, laser surgery, removal by surgery. Take care. Hope I have answered your question. Let me know if I can assist you further. Regards, Dr. Nupur K., General & Family Physician