HPV
Also known as: HPV DNA
Formal name: Genital Human Papillomavirus
Related tests: Pap smear
At a Glance
Why Get Tested?
Most often, to screen for infections in women with the types of HPV that are associated with cervical cancer or to follow up on an abnormal Pap smear; sometimes to detect an HPV infection in men as there is a potential correlation between HPV infection and anal or penile cancer
When to Get Tested?
If you are a woman age 30 or older; if you are a woman 21 years or older and have an irregular Pap smear; or if you are a man who is at high risk for HPV infections
Sample Required?
A sampling of cells from the cervical area in females; anal swabs or brush specimens in males. Currently, there are no tests approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to detect HPV in males; however, some labs have developed and validated this test to be used in-house.
Test Preparation Needed?
It is recommended that you do not douche or tub bath before the test; reschedule if you are menstruating. You may be asked to empty your bladder before the examination. Some doctors may request that you refrain from sex for 24 to 48 hours before the test.
