Is HPV43 positive and HPV68 positive serious?

Nov 06, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Lu
Introduction
If only HPV 43 (low-risk type) and HPV 68 (high-risk type) are positive, but no genital warts or cervical/genital epithelial lesions are found, and the individual has a healthy immune system, the likelihood of low-risk types causing benign proliferations is low. The high-risk type may be cleared by the immune system within 1–2 years. Regular follow-up tests to monitor viral changes and health status are sufficient.

Generally, the severity of a positive HPV43 or HPV68 result depends on whether there are associated genital lesions and the persistence of the virus. If no lesions are present and immune function is normal, the condition is relatively manageable. However, close attention is required if high-grade lesions or persistent infection are present. In case of concerns, it is advisable to seek medical consultation promptly. Detailed analysis is as follows:

If only HPV43 (low-risk type) and HPV68 (high-risk type) tests are positive, without detection of genital warts or cervical/genital epithelial lesions, and with a healthy immune system, the risk of benign proliferation caused by the low-risk type is low. The high-risk HPV68 may be cleared by the immune system within 1–2 years. In such cases, regular follow-up monitoring of viral status and health condition is sufficient, and significant short-term health impacts are unlikely.

However, if HPV43 positivity leads to genital warts, or HPV68 is accompanied by high-grade cervical or genital intraepithelial lesions, or if both viruses persist for over one year without clearance, long-term infection with high-risk HPV68 may increase the risk of malignant transformation in the cervix or genital tract. Prompt standardized treatment is necessary, including removal of warts, intervention for lesioned tissues, and suppression of viral replication.

After detecting positive results for HPV43 and HPV68, timely evaluation of the genital tract and cervix (in women) should be completed to determine the presence or absence of lesions.