[Question #8047] Biopsy result- HPV

49 months ago

Hello, I have dealt with horrible vulvar itching for a long time now. I got a biopsy on the most affected area and the result was ATROPHIC SQUAMOUS EPITHELIUM WITH HYPERKERATOSIS. is this hpv? I am worried it’s a wart Bc when I googled it hpv came up. I don’t understand what this means.

H. Hunter Handsfield, MD

49 months ago

Welcome to the forum. Thanks for your confidence in our services.

The direct answer to your equally direct question is that the biopsy does not indicate HPV infection. Your symptoms also did not suggest HPV, which does not cause itching. You will need to discuss this with your doctor -- probably a dermatologist? -- this really is a dermatologic issue. We on this forum re not experts in all genital skin conditions, but to me the biopsy is highly suggestive lichen simplex chronicus or lichen sclerosis, or perhaps chronic eczema. These are common causes of vulvar itching, in which the itching itself causes a vicious cycle, with more itching, more scratching, more itching, etc. In any case, according to my understanding, the report does not show HPV or suggest HPV as a cause. It also does not suggest any other STI, which is really our only expertise on this forum.

So my main suggestion is that you continue to follow up with the doctor managing this condition. If s/he isn't a dermatologist, you might ask for such a referral. And then follow your doctors' advice about treatment -- which might include a steroid (cortisone-type) cream.

I hope this information is helpful. Let me know if anything isn't clear.

HHH, MD

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49 months ago

Thank you doctor. I also have noticed redness and extreme itching on inner labia. Does this sound like hpv, or lichen sclerosus? I don't know if either of these cause redness. Thank you

H. Hunter Handsfield, MD

49 months ago

HPV does not cause itching, irritation, redness, or any other signs of inflammation. The other conditions mentioned all can do so.---