[Question #10648] Hpv dormancy

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21 months ago
I have read and been told that it can lie dormant in women for years or decades. I am entering menopause and just tested hpv 16 positive when I have not prior. When they talk about HPV dormancy, is it a particular strain or ALL HPV strains, including 16? I am baffled because I have been in monogamous relationship 26 years. Thank you for any insight 
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Edward W. Hook M.D.
21 months ago
Welcome to our Forum.  Thanks for your questions.  I'll be glad to comment.  

Dormancy means different things to different people and when it comes to HPV dormancy refers to the presence of detectable HPV following its having been previously present but undetectable.  The vast majority of HPV infections become non-detectable over 6-12 months following acquistion but sophisticated research tests have shown that small amounts of HPV DNA are still detectable.  These residual bits of DNA are the occasional source of detectable recurrence.  In addition, recent research has shown that dormant HPV can occasional reactivate to again be detectable but that when that happens, the recurrent viral shedding may not be persistently detectable.  In terms of risk for progression, in your situation there are few data and most clinicians would suggest regular follow-ups by your GYN.  When the virus persists (i.e. tests remain positive) over time, the risk for development of PAP smear abnormalities goes up.  

Dormancy of the sort I described above appears to be something seen with most, if not all HPV infections.  

Finally, regarding your situation, tests vary and are somewhat dependent on the quality of the sample submitted to the laboratory.  

I'd be interested in what your doctor has said about your positive test and the way forward.  My sense is that unless there are worrisome PAP smear changes, the thing to do is simply repeat the test in a few months.  

I hope that information is helpful.  Your situation is a bit uncommon and available guidance as to what to do in such situation is limited.  EWH
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21 months ago
Thank you. I guess my question is more, could I have had this before our 26 years together and it is just now showing? My husband I trust implicitly, so I’m confused why this is testing positive now. My apologies for not clarifying.
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21 months ago
And is it possible as I have read that in can stay in your body decades then for some reason it becomes detectable again?
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Edward W. Hook M.D.
21 months ago
Sorry if my reply was overly complicated.  The short answer is yes, it is certainly possible to have negative tests for years and then to have a previous infection become detectable.  EWH---
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21 months ago
Wow that is shocking to hear that something can rear its ugly head from 30 years ago. This will comfort my husband. He has been concerned and questioning my commitment. Very grateful you answered 
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21 months ago
I can’t imagine I am the only one to have come to this forum with this situation. Thanks again. My husband thanks you too.
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21 months ago
How do I close out my question? 
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Edward W. Hook M.D.
21 months ago
I will close it for you.  If you want it entirely deleted, that can be done as well.  If deleted neither you nor others can see it again.  If it is closed, others will be able to read and learn from our interactions.  Just let me know.  EWH ---