What Is A HPV Detection & Genotyping Test?
The Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) Detection & Genotyping Test is a qualitative PCR-based diagnostic tool designed to identify the presence of HPV DNA and determine specific genotypes. HPV is a common sexually transmitted infection (STI) with over 200 known strains, categorized into low-risk (causing warts) and high-risk (linked to cancers like cervical, anal and oropharyngeal).
This test is crucial for early detection, especially in women as persistent high-risk HPV infections (types 16 & 18) can lead to cervical cancer. It is also used in men to assess HPV-related risks, including genital warts and cancers. By genotyping, the test helps doctors determine the need for further screening (Pap smears, colposcopy) or vaccination follow-up.
How is the Test Performed?
Sample Collection
A swab is taken from the cervix (women), urethra/penis (men), or throat/anus if needed.
Lab Processing
DNA is extracted from the sample and amplified using Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) to detect HPV genetic material.
Genotyping
Specific probes identify low-risk (HPV 6, 11) and high-risk (HPV 16, 18, 31, 45) strains.
Results
Reported as positive/negative for HPV, with strain-specific details if detected in 3 to 5 days.
What are the symptoms that prompt this test?
Common Symptoms
- Abnormal Pap smear results
- Pelvic pain or unusual vaginal discharge
- Bleeding after intercourse in women
- Genital/anal warts
- Itching or discomfort in the genital area
- Lesions on the penis, scrotum or anus
All Genders (Adults & Children)
- Persistent throat infections (oral HPV)
- Anal warts or bleeding (if immunocompromised)
- Family history of HPV-related cancers
What are Normal Ranges for This Test?
For Women & Men: Normal/Negative, No HPV DNA detected.
Positive (Low-Risk): HPV 6, 11 detected (wart-causing strains).
Positive (High-Risk): HPV 16, 18, 31, 33, etc. (cancer-associated strains).
** Normal levels are dependent on a number of factors including age, gender, testing method and health condition of patient etc. Result interpretation should be done by a qualified doctor or healthcare professional.**
What Happens if Test Results Show Abnormal Levels?
A positive result indicates the presence of HPV, and the genotyping will reveal whether it’s a high-risk or low-risk type.
If a high-risk HPV type is detected –Further testing may be recommended such as colposcopy, cervical biopsy (for women) or anoscopy (for men or women). Doctors may monitor for signs of pre-cancer or recommend more frequent screening.
If a low-risk type is detected –Monitoring or treatment of symptoms (e.g., genital warts) may be recommended. In most cases, the body clears low-risk HPV naturally.
Persistent infection –Chronic HPV infections may require ongoing follow-up and management to prevent progression to more serious conditions.
Additional Information About HPV Test
When to Seek Medical Attention
If you received abnormal Pap smear results or have unexplained genital warts or lesions around genitals or mouth.
Related Tests
- Pap Smear
- Colposcopy
- Cervical Biopsy
- Anal Pap Test
- HPV DNA Quantitative PCR
Conditions Affecting Results
- Recent sexual activity
- Menstrual bleeding at time of sampling
- Vaginal infections or inflammation
- Use of vaginal creams or douches before test
