Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Test

HPV (Human Papillomavirus) Test

Why It Is Done

An HPV test is done to:

• Check for high-risk types of human papillomavirus (HPV) in women who had a Pap test that showed abnormal cervical cells called atypical squamous cells (ASC). An HPV test can help look for one or more high-risk types of HPV. If an HPV test shows that high-risk types of HPV are present, further testing, such as a colposcopy or cervical biopsy, may be recommended.
• Check for HPV in women older than age 30 as part of screening for abnormal cervical cells.
• To help check for abnormal cervical cells after treatment of a high-risk HPV infection.

The HPV test may be done at the same time as the Pap test. The results of this test can help doctors decide if further tests or treatments are needed. For more information, see the medical test Pap Test.

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Author:	Sydney Youngerman-Cole, RN, BSN, RNC	Last Updated: July 6, 2006
Medical Review:	Joy Melnikow, MD, MPH - Family Medicine Jeanne Marrazzo, MD, MPH - Infectious Disease
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