Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Test For HPV Infections in Females Genital Area

A Human Papillomavirus (HPV) test is a medical procedure that checks for the presence of a common virus responsible for genital warts and cervical cancer. It typically involves a swab or cell sample to identify HPV infections in the genital area.

HPV Test

Here are the basic details of the HPV Test.

*HPV Test Price range may vary as per location, lab type, and procedure of lab test.

HPV Test Means

The Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Test is a diagnostic procedure test.

• It identifies the presence of the human papillomavirus in specific areas.
• HPV is a common sexually transmitted virus linked to genital warts and cervical cancer.
• The test typically involves swabbing the genital or oral area.
• It's primarily used to screen for HPV in sexually active individuals, especially women.
• Early detection through HPV testing can help prevent and manage related health risks, such as cervical cancer.

HPV Test Purpose

The purpose of the HPV Test is to:

• Detect and identify the presence of HPV.
• Screen for this common sexually transmitted infection.
• Assess the risk of genital warts and cervical cancer.
• Assist in early intervention and treatment.
• Promote preventive measures and informed healthcare decisions.
• Improve women's reproductive health outcomes.

HPV Test Preparation

Here is the basic preparation for the HPV Test.

Before Test

• No specific preparation or fasting is typically required.
• Inform your healthcare provider about any recent sexual activity or history of HPV.

During Test

• The test may involve a swab of the genital or oral area.
• It's a quick and relatively painless procedure.

After Test

• There are typically no specific post-test care instructions.
• Await the test results, and discuss them with your healthcare provider for further guidance.

HPV Test Procedure

Here is the basic HPV Test Procedure.

• The HPV test typically involves taking a swab or sample from the genital or oral area.
• During a pelvic exam for women, a swab may be taken from the cervix.
• For men or individuals with oral HPV concerns, a swab or sample may be collected from the appropriate area.
• The collected sample is then sent to a laboratory for analysis.
• In some cases, the HPV test may be performed along with a Pap smear for women.
• The laboratory analyzes the sample to detect the presence of HPV DNA or genetic material.
• Results are usually available in a few weeks, and further actions are determined based on the findings, such as additional testing or follow-up appointments.

HPV Test Result

HPV test results are typically reported as either "positive" or "negative."

• A "positive" result means that HPV DNA or genetic material was detected in the sample.
• A "negative" result indicates that no HPV was found in the sample.
• In some cases, the test may specify the type of HPV detected (e.g., HPV 16 or HPV 18).
• A "positive" result may warrant further evaluation, such as a Pap smear or colposcopy, to assess the risk of cervical abnormalities or cancer.

HPV Test Normal Results

Here is the normal result of the HPV Test.

HPV Test Interpretation

Here is the Interpretation of the HPV Test.

HPV Test Positive Result

Here are potential causes of HPV Test Positive Result.

HPV Test Negative Result

Here are potential causes of HPV Test Negative Result.

Specimen Requirements For HPV Test

Here are the specimen requirements for the HPV Test.

HPV Test is Safe?

The HPV test is safe and non-invasive.

• It typically involves a swab or sample collection from the genital or oral area and is well-tolerated.
• No significant safety concerns are associated with the test.

When Do You Get HPV Test Results? 

• HPV test results are typically available within a 1-3 weeks.
• The exact reporting time may vary based on the laboratory's processing times.

HPV Test Limitation

Here is the basic limitation of HPV Test.

• Limited virus type identification: HPV tests may not identify specific HPV types, such as low-risk or high-risk strains.
• False negatives: The sensitivity of the test may lead to occasional false-negative results.
• Sampling location matters: The site of the swab/sample can impact the accuracy of results.
• Doesn't assess cancer stage: The test detects HPV presence but doesn't determine cancer stage or progression.
• Routine screening may miss certain individuals at risk.

HPV Test Risk Factors

Here are some of the risk factors of the HPV Test.

• Test sensitivity may lead to false negatives.
• Variability based on sample collection site.
• Routine screening may not capture all at-risk individuals.
• Limited information on specific HPV types.
• Results may not assess cancer stage or progression.

Doctor Recommendations After HPV Test Result

 Here are the Doctor's recommendations or consult a specialist after the HPV Test.

HPV Test Price

Here are the estimated HPV Test Prices in India with different top cities:

*HPV Test Price are approximate and vary depending on a specific laboratory or healthcare facility.

Summary

Overall, HPV Test is paramount in detecting a common sexually transmitted infection, assessing cancer risk, and safeguarding women's reproductive health. Also check Drlogy Test for detailed information about all medical tests for patients, doctors, scholers and medical students.

Reference

• Human Papillomavirus - Wikipedia [1].
• HPV test better predicts cervical cancer risk than Pap test - NIH [2].