What is HPV? HPV (Human Papillomavirus) is a group of more than 200 viruses, approximately 40 of which can infect the genital, anal, and oropharyngeal areas. HPV is the most common sexually transmitted infection worldwide. Most infections clear on their own within 1–2 years, but some types of the virus may persist in the body and cause cellular changes that, over time, can lead to the development of cancer.
Types of HPV HPV is divided into two main groups:
How is HPV transmitted? HPV is mainly transmitted through:
Condom use reduces the risk of transmission but does not completely eliminate it.
Who should be tested? HPV testing is recommended:
Routine HPV testing in men is not recommended in most cases.
How is the test performed? The sample is collected from the cervix during a gynecological examination. The viral DNA is analyzed using highly sensitive and accurate molecular methods to identify the presence of 28 HPV types.
What does the result mean?
Why is the test important? Early detection of HPV helps identify patients who may require monitoring or further examinations. A positive result does not necessarily mean that cancer is present, but it indicates the need for evaluation by a specialist physician.
Results Test results are available within 3–5 working days, allowing for a rapid and reliable evaluation.
It is a molecular test that detects the presence of Human Papillomavirus (HPV) in a sample collected from the cervix.
Our laboratory analyzes a panel of 28 HPV types, including both high-risk and low-risk types.
The sample is collected from the cervix during a gynecological examination. The procedure is quick and usually causes only minimal discomfort.
It is preferable to collect the sample outside the menstrual period, as blood may affect the quality of the sample.
For the most accurate results, it is generally recommended to avoid sexual intercourse, the use of tampons, and vaginal products for approximately 48 hours before sample collection, according to the physician’s instructions.
Sample collection takes only a few minutes.
The result is available within 3–5 working days.
No. A positive result indicates the presence of HPV and does not automatically mean that you have cancer.
A negative result means that HPV was not detected in the sample analyzed. However, this does not rule out the possibility of a future infection.
Yes. HPV can often be asymptomatic, so testing and screening according to medical recommendations are important.
HPV testing varies depending on the site of infection and the clinical indication. Routine HPV testing is not recommended for asymptomatic men. In specific cases, a physician may recommend a targeted evaluation.
Not in every situation. HPV testing and the Pap test provide different information, and the physician determines which test or combination of tests is most appropriate for the patient.
The testing interval depends on age, previous results, and the physician’s recommendations. There is no single interval that applies to every patient.
Yes. The result should be interpreted in combination with age, clinical history, Pap test results, and other examinations when necessary.
