HPVtesting

HPV testing refers to laboratory assays that detect the presence of human papillomavirus (HPV) genetic material in a clinical sample. The tests target high-risk HPV types that are most strongly associated with cervical cancer, and they may detect either viral DNA or viral RNA. A positive result indicates an HPV infection; it does not by itself diagnose cancer or precancerous disease.

HPV testing is primarily used in cervical cancer screening. In many guidelines, women aged 30 to 65 are offered co-testing with a Pap cytology test and an HPV test every five years, or HPV testing alone as the primary screen in certain programs. The test can also be used to triage abnormal Pap results, especially in cases labeled ASC-US, helping determine whether a colposcopy is needed. HPV testing is not routinely used for population screening in men.

HPV DNA tests (for example Hybrid Capture 2 and the cobas HPV test) detect high-risk HPV DNA in cervical specimens. RNA-based tests (such as Aptima HPV) detect E6/E7 mRNA transcripts, which may reflect active viral oncoprotein expression. Some tests, such as cobas HPV, identify HPV types 16 and 18 separately. Samples are typically collected from the cervix with a clinician-administered swab, but some tests are validated for self-collected vaginal samples in specific screening programs.

Results must be interpreted with cytology and clinical context. A positive high-risk HPV test without cytological abnormalities often leads to closer follow-up or colposcopy, depending on age and guidelines; a positive HPV test with abnormal cytology generally prompts diagnostic evaluation. A negative HPV test reduces short-term risk but does not guarantee absence of disease. HPV vaccination reduces infection risk with several HPV types and complements screening programs rather than replacing them.