High-risk HPV and dysplasia care in Seattle, Washington
HPV and Abnormal Cells
Why HPV often goes unnoticed
- Anyone can carry HPV, regardless of sexual orientation or gender
- Spread through skin-to-skin contact, not only intercourse
- Higher-risk groups include men who have sex with men, patients with a history of genital warts, immunosuppressed patients, and anyone with a history of cervical or vulvar HPV
- Many patients are otherwise healthy and never noticed anything
Low-risk HPV can cause visible warts. High-risk HPV usually causes none of that. It works silently, changing cells in ways you can't see or feel, which is why evaluation, not symptoms, is what actually catches it.
What it actually feels like
- The area is numbed with topical and local anesthesia before anything begins.
- Nitrous oxide is available if you want additional comfort during the procedure itself.
- Most patients describe pressure rather than pain, with manageable soreness for a day or two afterward.
- No sedation is used, so you will never need a driver.
How abnormal cells are treated
- Ablation of abnormal tissue during high-resolution anoscopy
- Targeted removal of precancerous lesions
- Ongoing surveillance, typically every 3 to 12 months
- HPV vaccination, which reduces recurrence and future risk even in adults
The goal is to eliminate abnormal tissue early, before it has a chance to progress.
Your visit
- Visual inspection and high-resolution anoscopy when appropriate
- Biopsy of any concerning areas
- HPV testing for high-risk strains
Most evaluations take place in a single visit, and you'll understand your results before you leave.
What it costs
Evaluation and treatment of high-risk HPV and abnormal cells is medically necessary and often covered by insurance, depending upon your plan. Our billing team reviews your benefits and gives you pricing before your visit.
Performed by Dr. Kratz, in our Seattle office
Common questions
Connected to your care
HPV, warts, and cancer screening are pieces of the same picture. Ongoing surveillance through high-resolution anoscopy is often part of long-term management.
Knowing is better than wondering.
Call or text for a private consultation and a clear plan.