I first found out I had cervical dysplasia (CIN I) in spring of 2012. After biopsies, doctors said I'd likely be fine and I shouldn't have any more issues. I got the Gardasil vaccine after that to be safe from future exposure. Four months ago, they found CIN II and did a LEEP and typed my HPV. When I learned it was HPV 16 (the "worst" one) and that I'd had it for over 3 years, I started paying closer attention to the areas of my body where HPV16 is known to cause cancer.

Today, when checking my throat in a mirror to look for swelling or spots after noticing a sore throat, I found a small papilloma (maybe 6mm long, max). The urgent care doctor gave me a routine referal to have a specialist look at it.

I'm here posting because after browsing the Internet for several hours, I'm feeling nervous (as is typical!). I likely have oral HPV16, a leading cause of oral cancer. Is a papilloma cancerous? How about one caused by HPV16? I've had a white spot (about 3mm radius) on my right tonsil for years, just below where the papilloma is, and although a doctor told me years ago that it wasn't anything to worry about, does it become more concerning now that I've found this new growth? Are there potentially more growths hidden in my tonsils or deeper in my throat?

I'm assuming it will be months until I can get in to see the specialist. I'd love some info earlier than that. Thank you for any info you can provide!