HealthWise KnowledgeBase
Human Papillomavirus (HPV) 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 Reference atypical squamous cells (ASC) Opens New Window. 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 Reference colposcopy Opens New Window or Reference cervical biopsy Opens New Window, 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 topic Reference Pap Test.
| By: | Reference Healthwise Staff | Last Revised: Reference June 21, 2012 |
| Medical Review: | Reference Sarah Marshall, MD - Family Medicine
Reference Kirtly Jones, MD - Obstetrics and Gynecology |
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