HPVDNAtesting

HPVDNAtesting refers to a molecular diagnostic technique used to detect the presence of human papillomavirus (HPV) DNA in clinical specimens, most commonly cervical swabs. The test employs polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification of specific HPV genomic regions followed by sequencing or hybridization to identify high‑risk oncogenic types. By targeting DNA rather than protein expressed through viral antigens, the assay is able to detect asymptomatic infections and infections that may not produce pronounced cellular changes.

The primary clinical application of HPVDNAtesting is in cervical cancer screening. In many screening programs it serves as a triage tool for women with abnormal cytology results, helping to identify those at greatest risk for precancerous lesions. Some countries have implemented “primary HPV testing,” in which all women above a certain age are screened directly with HPVDNAtesting before cytology is performed. The procedure typically requires a clinician‑collected cervical sample, storage in a transport medium, and laboratory analysis within a standard 48‑hour window.

Sensitivity and specificity of HPVDNAtesting vary with the assay platform. Many assays detect the 14 high‑risk HPV genotypes (including HPV‑16 and HPV‑18) and may offer genotyping to discern those with the highest oncogenic potential. According to published guidelines from the American Society for Colposcopy and Cervical Pathology, a positive HPVDNA result alone is not diagnostic of cervical cancer but indicates a need for further evaluation, such as colposcopic examination and biopsy.

Limitations of HPVDNAtesting include false‑positive results from transient infections, particularly in younger women, and the cost of testing, which can be higher than conventional cytology. Nevertheless, the increasing availability of affordable, high‑throughput platforms has expanded the use of HPVDNAtesting worldwide.