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HPV
Discover HPV care at GastroDoxs in Houston with Dr. Scott, a board-certified gastroenterologist. From diagnosis using Pap smears and colposcopy to advanced treatments like cryotherapy and LEEP, we offer personalized plans, lifestyle guidance, and state-of-the-art procedures for optimal HPV management.
Dr. Scott Liu, MD, is a board-certified gastroenterologist with over six years of experience and a background in military medicine. He earned his medical degree from the University of Maryland, Baltimore, completed his Internal Medicine residency at Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, and finished his Gastroenterology fellowship through the National Capital Consortium. Dr. Liu provides comprehensive care for a broad range of digestive conditions, including abdominal pain, acid reflux, liver disease, chronic diarrhea, and colon cancer screening. He is a member of the American College of Gastroenterology and is known for his disciplined, patient-focused approach and clear communication.
Common Causes and Risk Factors
Sexual contact: spreads through vaginal, anal, or oral sex
Multiple partners: increases your exposure risk
Early sexual activity: starting young can raise your risk
Weakened immunity: illness or certain medications lower your defenses
Smoking: tobacco use makes it harder to clear the virus
Signs and Symptoms
Often none-many people have no visible signs
Women: genital warts or abnormal Pap test results
Men: bumps or warts on the penis, scrotum, or around the anus
High-risk types (HPV 16 & 18): may cause abnormal cervical cells
Possible low back pain or discomfort if warts grow large
How Dr. Scott Diagnoses This Condition?
Dr. Scott uses a step-by-step approach:
Medical History and Physical Exam
He reviews your sexual history, presence of genital or anal warts, past HPV infections, smoking habits, immune status, and any rectal bleeding or discomfort. A focused physical exam includes inspection of the anal and genital areas.
Visual Inspection
Visible genital or anal warts can often be diagnosed on sight. Dr. Scott may use a magnifying tool for closer examination of lesions.
Anal Pap Smear
A swab of the anal canal is collected to screen for abnormal cells (anal dysplasia), especially in patients at high risk for anal cancer.
HPV DNA Testing
This lab test identifies high-risk HPV strains linked to cancer. It's often used alongside cytology for better screening accuracy.
High-Resolution Anoscopy (if needed)
If the Pap smear shows abnormalities, Dr. Scott may perform high-resolution anoscopy to examine and biopsy suspicious anal tissue.
Treatment
Our Team offers a full range of care for HPV.
1. Lifestyle and Diet Modifications
Quit smoking and limit alcohol
Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins
Stay active and manage stress through yoga or meditation
2. Medications
Topical treatments: Prescription creams or gels can remove warts
Antiviral support: Medications that help your body fight the virus
3. Minimally Invasive or Advanced Procedures
Cryotherapy: Freezing warts with liquid nitrogen
Laser therapy: A focused beam to vaporize affected tissue
Dr. Scott Liu, MD, is a board-certified gastroenterologist with over six years of experience and a background in military medicine. He earned his medical degree from the University of Maryland, Baltimore, completed his Internal Medicine residency at Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, and finished his Gastroenterology fellowship through the National Capital Consortium. Dr. Liu provides comprehensive care for a broad range of digestive conditions, including abdominal pain, acid reflux, liver disease, chronic diarrhea, and colon cancer screening. He is a member of the American College of Gastroenterology and is known for his disciplined, patient-focused approach and clear communication.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the first signs of HPV in women?
Genital warts or abnormal Pap test results often appear first. Some women feel no symptoms.
Do men need an HPV test?
Routine testing for men isn't standard, but Dr. Scott may recommend it if you have risk factors.
Why is the HPV vaccine not recommended after 26?
The vaccine works best before first exposure. After 26, most people have already met HPV types covered by the shot.
What is the difference between HPV types 16 and 18?
Both carry higher cancer risk. Type 16 links more often to throat and cervical cancer. Type 18 also carries a strong risk, especially for the cervix.
Can diet affect HPV clearance?
A healthy diet supports your immune system. While it won't cure HPV, it can help your body fight it.
Is HPV always sexually transmitted?
In nearly all cases, yes. Barrier methods reduce risk but do not eliminate it completely.
How long does it take to clear HPV?
Many clear the virus within 1-2 years. High-risk types may linger and require close follow-up.
