Oral human papillomavirus infection
Definition
Human papillomavirus infection is the most common sexually transmitted infection. The infection is caused by the human papilloma virus (HPV).
HPV can cause genital warts and lead to cervical cancer. Certain types of HPV can cause an infection in the mouth and throat. In some people, this can cause oral cancer.
This article is about oral HPV infection.
Alternative Names
Oropharyngeal HPV infection; Oral HPV infection
Causes
Oral HPV is thought to spread mainly through oral sex and deep tongue kissing. The virus passes from one person to another during sexual activity.
Your risk of getting the infection goes up if you:
- Have more sexual partners
- Use tobacco or alcohol
- Have a weak immune system
Men are more likely to have oral HPV infection than women.
Certain types of HPV are known to cause cancer of the throat or larynx. This is called oropharyngeal cancer. HPV-16 is commonly associated with almost all oral cancers.
Symptoms
Oral HPV infection shows no symptoms. You can have HPV without ever knowing it. You can pass on the virus because you don't know you have it.
Most people who develop oropharyngeal cancer from an HPV infection have had the infection for a long time.
Symptoms of oropharyngeal cancer may include:
- Abnormal (high-pitched) breathing sounds
- Cough
- Coughing up blood
- Trouble swallowing, pain when swallowing
- Sore throat that lasts more than 2 to 3 weeks, even with antibiotics
- Hoarseness that does not get better in 3 to 4 weeks
- Swollen lymph nodes
- White or red area (lesion) on tonsils
- Jaw pain or swelling
- Neck or cheek lump
- Unexplained weight loss
Exams and Tests
An oral HPV infection has no symptoms and cannot be detected by a test.
If you have symptoms that concern you, it does not mean you have cancer, but you should see your health care provider to get it checked.
You may undergo a physical exam. Your provider may examine your mouth area. You may be asked about your medical history and any symptoms you noticed.
The provider may look in your throat or nose using a flexible tube with a small camera at the end.
If your provider suspects cancer, other tests may be ordered, such as:
- Biopsy of suspected tumor. This tissue will also be tested for HPV.
- Chest x-ray.
- CT scan of chest.
- CT scan of head and neck.
- MRI of the head or neck.
- PET scan.
Treatment
Most oral HPV infections go away on their own without treatment within 2 years and do not cause any health problems.
Possible Complications
Certain types of HPV can cause oropharyngeal cancer.
When to Contact a Medical Professional
Contact your provider right away if you notice any of the symptoms of mouth and throat cancer.
Prevention
Using condoms and dental dams may help prevent the spread of oral HPV. But be aware that condoms or dams cannot fully protect you. This is because the virus can be on the nearby skin.
The HPV vaccine can help prevent cervical cancer. It's not clear if the vaccine can also help prevent oral HPV.
Ask your doctor whether vaccination is right for you.
References
Bonnez W. Papillomaviruses. In: Bennett JE, Dolin R, Blaser MJ, eds. Mandell, Douglas and Bennett's Principles and Practice of Infectious Diseases. 9th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2020:chap 143.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website. HPV and oropharyngeal cancer. www.cdc.gov/cancer/hpv/basic_info/hpv_oropharyngeal.htm. Updated September 3, 2020. Accessed July 30, 2021.
Rettig E, Gourin CG, Fakhry C. Human papillomavirus and the epidemiology of head and neck cancer. In: Flint PW, Francis HW, Haughey BH, et al, eds. Cummings Otolaryngology: Head and Neck Surgery. 7th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2021:chap 74.