Difference Between High- and Low-Risk HPV

There are many different kinds of human papillomavirus, which cause warts and other conditions. In relationship to cervical health, high- and low-risk HPV are terms that describe the relative chance of the development of cervical cancer from various types of HPV.

Types

• Both high- and low-risk human papillomavirus infections can cause changes in the uterus (or sometime other tissues). According to WomensHealth.gov, the majority of HPV infections are low risk.

Effects

• Low-risk HPV can in some cases cause genital warts or, according to WomensHealth.gov, causes no symptoms at all in most cases. High-risk HPV increases the chances of developing cervical cancer, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Considerations

• In addition to cervical cancer, HPV contributes to the development of anal and penile cancers in men, according to the CDC. As of 2009, there is no screening test for HPV infection in men.

Significance

• The CDC reports that most people with high-risk HPV do not go on to develop cancer; nevertheless, HPV infection is the leading cause of cervical cancer.

Identification

• Through the use of routine pap smears, the presence of HPV can be identified early on. Whether caused by low- or high-risk forms of the virus, this information can help doctors and patients make informed decisions about cervical health.