HPV Test: Definition

The HPV test is a laboratory test that looks for evidence of infection with the human papillomavirus (HPV). HPV is a very common virus that can infect the cervix, vagina, vulva, anus, penis, and throat. Most HPV infections clear on their own, but some types of HPV can cause cancer, especially cervical cancer. The HPV test may be performed at the same time as a Pap test to help screen for cervical cancer. In some regions, the HPV test has replaced the Pap test as the primary screening test for cervical cancer.

How does the HPV test work?

The HPV test works by looking for the DNA or RNA of HPV in cells collected from the cervix. Special laboratory techniques are used to detect whether high-risk types of HPV are present. These are the types of HPV most strongly linked to cancer.

The test does not look for every type of HPV infection. Instead, it focuses on the high-risk HPV strains, such as HPV-16 and HPV-18, which are responsible for most cases of cervical cancer.

What does the HPV test look for?

The test looks for high-risk HPV infection. A positive result means that one or more high-risk HPV types were found in the sample. A negative result means that none of the high-risk types were detected.

Some tests can also identify which type of high-risk HPV is present, especially HPV-16 and HPV-18. Knowing the specific type can help doctors decide on the next steps for follow-up.

Who should get the HPV test?

Guidelines vary slightly by country, but in general:

• Women aged 25 to 65 are eligible for cervical cancer screening with either an HPV test, a Pap test, or both together (called co-testing).

• The HPV test may also be recommended if a Pap test result is unclear or abnormal.

• In most screening programs, the test is not recommended for people under age 25 because HPV infections in this age group are common and usually go away on their own.

How is the HPV test performed?

The HPV test is usually done at the same time as a Pap test during a routine pelvic exam.

• A health professional gently inserts a speculum into the vagina to see the cervix.

• A small brush or swab is used to collect cells from the surface of the cervix.

• The sample is sent to the laboratory for testing.

The procedure is quick and usually causes only mild discomfort.

How are the results described in a pathology report?

In your pathology report, the results of the HPV test will usually be described as:

• Negative for high-risk HPV: No high-risk HPV was detected. This is considered a normal result.

• Positive for high-risk HPV: High-risk HPV was detected. The report may specify whether the infection is caused by HPV-16, HPV-18, or another high-risk type.

• Inconclusive or inadequate sample: Occasionally, the report may say the sample was not suitable for testing and the test should be repeated.

Your doctor will interpret the HPV result alongside your Pap test result and your medical history. If HPV is detected, you may need closer follow-up, such as a repeat test in one year or a colposcopy (a procedure that uses a special microscope to look closely at the cervix).

Is the HPV test better than a Pap test?

Both the HPV test and the Pap test are useful tools for preventing cervical cancer, but they work in different ways.

• The HPV test looks for the virus (HPV) that can cause cancer.

• The Pap test looks for abnormal changes in cervical cells that may turn into cancer.

Research shows that the HPV test is often more sensitive than the Pap test because it can detect high-risk HPV infections before cell changes occur. For this reason, many guidelines recommend HPV testing as the main cervical cancer screening tool, sometimes combined with a Pap test (co-testing). Your doctor will recommend the best approach for you based on your age, medical history, and local screening guidelines.

Can other parts of the body be tested?

Yes. While the HPV test is most commonly used for cervical cancer screening, HPV can also infect the anus, penis, throat, and mouth. Specialized HPV tests can be done on samples collected from these sites, usually if there are symptoms such as warts, abnormal growths, or precancerous changes. However, routine HPV testing for these areas is not part of standard cancer screening programs, and the tests are typically used only when there is a medical reason.

Can this test be used to test a man for HPV?

There is no approved routine HPV test for men. While HPV can infect men and cause conditions such as genital warts, penile cancer, anal cancer, and throat cancer, there is currently no standard screening test for HPV in men. Doctors may perform specialized HPV testing on samples from the anus or throat if there are symptoms or risk factors, but this is not done for general screening.

The most effective way for men to reduce their risk of HPV-related diseases is through the HPV vaccine, which protects against the most common high-risk HPV types. Using condoms can also lower the risk of transmission, although it does not completely prevent HPV infection.

Questions to ask your doctor

• What did my HPV test result show?

• If I have HPV, what type was detected?

• How does this result affect my risk of cervical cancer?

• Do I need additional tests such as colposcopy or a repeat HPV test?

• How often should I continue cervical cancer screening?