Definition

A group of cancer-causing human papillomaviruses (HPV) that are transmitted sexually. These viruses infect the cells on the moist surfaces or inner lining of some organs and body cavities, such as the cervix, vagina, vulva, penis, anus, mouth, and throat. A long-lasting infection with a high-risk human papillomavirus type can lead to cell changes that, if not treated, may become cancer. High-risk human papillomavirus can cause cancers of the cervix, anus, oropharynx, vagina, vulva, and penis. There are about 12 types of high-risk human papillomavirus, but HPV types 16 and 18 cause most HPV-related cancers. Also called high-risk HPV.