Can HPV cause swollen lymph nodes?
Nov 06, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Ziqi
Introduction
In general, whether HPV infection causes lymph node swelling depends on the type of infection and disease progression. Ordinary HPV infections usually do not lead to lymph node enlargement; however, persistent HPV infection that triggers cervical lesions, anal cancer, or other conditions may be accompanied by localized lymph node swelling. It is important in daily life to maintain personal hygiene, avoid unhygienic sexual practices, and reduce the risk of HPV infection.
Generally, whether HPV infection causes lymph node swelling depends on the type of infection and disease progression. Ordinary HPV infections typically do not lead to lymph node enlargement; however, if persistent HPV infection leads to cervical lesions, anal cancer, or other conditions, it may be accompanied by local lymph node swelling. Detailed analysis is as follows:
If infected with low-risk types of HPV—such as those causing common warts, flat warts, or genital warts—the infection usually remains limited to the surface of the skin or mucous membranes without invading deeper tissues or causing serious pathological changes. In such cases, lymph node swelling generally does not occur, and symptoms are confined to wart-like growths on the local skin or mucosa.
When persistent high-risk HPV infection leads to cervical intraepithelial lesions, cervical cancer, anal cancer, vulvar cancer, or similar conditions, cancer cells may spread via the lymphatic system, resulting in swollen lymph nodes near the affected areas—such as inguinal or pelvic lymph nodes. These enlarged lymph nodes are often hard in texture and have poor mobility, and may be accompanied by abnormal symptoms at the primary site, such as vaginal bleeding or localized pain.
In daily life, maintaining good personal hygiene, avoiding unhygienic sexual practices, and reducing the risk of HPV infection are important. Regular HPV testing and cervical cancer screening can help detect infections or abnormalities early, enabling timely intervention.
