Oncogenic HPV Types: 31, 51, 52, 66 and Others in Women

You received an HPV test result, and it lists a type number — for example, 31, 52, or 66. This is not a verdict, but information about which virus was detected. Let's clarify what these numbers mean and what they affect.

What HPV types are and why they are numbered

HPV is a group of very common viruses, with more than 100 types. Each type has its own number so that doctors can distinguish their properties. The virus affects the skin and mucous membranes, including the genitals, mouth, and throat. Most people become infected with HPV at some point in their lives, and usually the immune system clears the virus within two years. Some types cause genital warts, while others are linked to cancer risk.

High-oncogenic HPV types: list and meaning

Types that can lead to cancer are called high-oncogenic. By oncogenic risk, groups are distinguished: high risk — 16, 18, 31, 33, 39, 50, 59, 64, 68, 70; medium — 30, 35, 45, 52, 53, 56, 58; low — 3, 6, 11, 13, 32, 34, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 51, 61, 72, 73. The division into low- and high-oncogenic types is conditional: a malignant tumor can also arise at the site where a low-risk type was introduced. Detection of such a type does not mean that cancer is already present, but it requires monitoring, since a long-lasting infection can cause changes in cervical cells.

HPV 31, 33, 35, 39 and 45: what is known about these types

These types belong to different groups of oncogenic risk. In Eastern Europe, the most common are HPV16 (3.2%), HPV18 (1.4%), HPV52 (0.9%), HPV31 (0.8%), and HPV58 (0.7%). In Belarus, among high carcinogenic risk HPV types, HPV51 accounts for 10.6%, HPV56 — 9.1%, HPV31 — 8.9%, HPV52 — 8.1%, HPV33 — 6.9%, HPV45 — 6.2%. If one of them is listed in the result, the doctor will assess it together with cytology (Pap test) data.

HPV 51, 52, 56, 58, 59 and 66: how they differ

Types 31, 33, and 39 are classified as high oncogenic risk, while 35 and 45 are classified as medium. In Eastern Europe, HPV52 (0.9%) and HPV58 (0.7%) are named among the more common; in Belarus, among high carcinogenic risk types — HPV51 (10.6%), HPV56 (9.1%), and HPV52 (8.1%). For type 66, there is no separate information here: it is better to ask a doctor about its significance. In the classification, 51 is assigned to low oncogenic risk, 52, 56, and 58 to medium, and 59 to high. Detection of any of these types is a reason for regular monitoring, not panic.

How HPV type is determined in women

During cervical screening, a small sample of cervical cells is taken and a Pap test, HPV test, or both are performed. There is no blood test for HPV. If necessary, the doctor may refer for colposcopy — examination of the cervix under magnification.

• The HPV test examines a sample of cervical cells for the virus.
• The Pap test assesses changes in cervical cells.
• Colposcopy allows suspicious areas to be examined.

What is normal: detection of HPV without cell changes is a common situation, and the virus may go away on its own. What to ask the doctor: which type exactly was found, whether there were changes in the Pap test, and how often you need to be checked.

Risks and when to see a doctor

HPV itself does not cause symptoms. The risk is linked to the long-term presence of the virus. With long-lasting infection with cell changes or cancer, symptoms may appear, and they depend on the affected organ. If you have any new symptoms, see a gynecologist. Regular screenings help detect changes in time.

Having HPV by itself is not a reason to call an ambulance. Call 103 or 112 for a life-threatening condition, for example loss of consciousness or severe bleeding that does not stop.

Discuss your result with a gynecologist to make a monitoring plan. This article is for reference and does not replace a doctor's consultation.

This content is for reference and does not replace a doctor's consultation. Medical disclaimer