What is HPV test?

The HPV (Human Papillomavirus) test is a diagnostic tool used to detect the presence of the human papillomavirus in your body. HPV is a very common sexually transmitted infection (STI). While most HPV infections clear up on their own without causing any health problems, certain high-risk types of HPV can lead to serious health issues, including cervical cancer, as well as other cancers in both men and women. The HPV test is primarily used to screen for these high-risk types, allowing for early detection and preventive measures.

This test is crucial for women's health, particularly in the context of cervical cancer screening. In India, where cervical cancer remains a significant health concern, regular HPV testing can play a vital role in reducing the incidence and mortality associated with this disease. The test helps identify individuals who may be at higher risk and require further investigation and management.

Why is HPV test Performed?

The HPV test serves several critical purposes, making it an important part of preventive healthcare:

• Detect HPV Infection: The primary purpose is to identify whether you have an HPV infection. Since many HPV infections are asymptomatic (show no symptoms), an HPV test is often the only way to know if you are infected.

• Cervical Cancer Screening: This is one of the most vital uses of the HPV test. It screens for high-risk HPV types that are known to cause cervical cancer. Early detection of these types allows for timely intervention and can significantly reduce the risk of developing cervical cancer.

• Identify High-Risk Strains: The test can specifically identify high-risk HPV strains, such as HPV 16 and HPV 18, which are responsible for approximately 70% of cervical cancers. Knowing which strain is present can help healthcare providers make more informed decisions about monitoring and treatment.

• Follow-up to Pap Smear: If a Pap smear (another cervical cancer screening test) comes back with abnormal results, an HPV test is often performed as a follow-up. This helps determine whether an HPV infection is the cause of the abnormal cells and guides further management.

• Oropharyngeal Cancer: While less common, HPV can also cause oropharyngeal cancers (cancers of the throat, tonsils, and base of the tongue). In some cases, HPV testing can help determine treatment options for these cancers.

• Assess Risk: The HPV test helps assess the risk of precancerous changes in the cervix. A positive HPV test, especially with high-risk strains, indicates a higher risk of developing cervical abnormalities that could potentially lead to cancer.

In summary, the HPV test is performed to:

• Detect HPV infections, especially those caused by high-risk types.
• Screen for cervical cancer and identify individuals at risk.
• Determine the need for further investigation and management of cervical abnormalities.
• Guide treatment decisions for certain cancers.

Preparation for HPV test

Proper preparation for an HPV test is essential to ensure accurate results. Here's what you need to do:

• Avoid during menstruation: It's best to schedule your HPV test when you are not menstruating. Menstrual blood can interfere with the test results. If you have a period when your appointment is scheduled, contact your doctor to reschedule.

• Avoid vaginal products: For at least two days before your test, avoid using any products inside your vagina, including:

  • Tampons
  • Birth control foam, jellies, or creams
  • Vaginal medicines or suppositories

• No douching: Do not douche (rinse the inside of your vagina) for at least two days before the test. Douching can wash away cells and interfere with the accuracy of the test.

• Abstain from intercourse: Avoid vaginal sex for two days before the test. Sexual activity can also affect the cells collected during the test.

• Inform your doctor: It's important to inform your doctor about any medications you are taking, any allergies you have, or any underlying medical conditions. This information can help them provide the best possible care.

In short, to prepare for an HPV test:

• Schedule the test when you are not menstruating.
• Avoid vaginal products for two days prior.
• Do not douche for two days prior.
• Abstain from vaginal sex for two days prior.
• Inform your doctor about any relevant medical information.

Following these guidelines will help ensure that your HPV test provides accurate and reliable results.

The HPV test Procedure

The HPV test procedure is relatively simple and quick. Here’s a detailed look at what you can expect:

• Sample Collection:

  • The HPV test typically involves collecting cells from the cervix. This is the same area that's sampled during a Pap smear.
  • The sample collection is usually performed by a healthcare provider (doctor, nurse, or trained technician) during a pelvic exam.
  • For males, an oral swab from a lesion may be collected if the test is being done to investigate oropharyngeal cancer.
  • At-home kits are also available in some regions. These kits involve using a special swab to collect a sample of cells from the cervix and vagina, which is then sent to a lab for analysis. However, their availability and reliability in India should be checked thoroughly before use.

• Process:

  • When you arrive for your appointment, you may be asked to undress from the waist down and put on a hospital gown.
  • You will lie on an examination table with your feet in stirrups.
  • The doctor will gently insert a speculum into your vagina. The speculum is a medical instrument that widens the vaginal canal, allowing the doctor to see the cervix clearly.
  • Once the cervix is visible, the doctor will use a soft brush or swab to collect cells from the surface of the cervix. This process is usually quick and may cause mild discomfort, but it is generally not painful.
  • The collected sample is then placed in a vial containing a preservative solution. This solution helps preserve the cells until they can be analyzed in the lab.
  • The vial is labeled and sent to a laboratory for analysis.

• Testing Methods: Different testing methods are used to detect HPV:

  • HPV DNA Test: This is the most common method for cervical cancer screening. It detects the genetic material (DNA) of high-risk HPV strains. The presence of HPV DNA indicates that the virus is present in the cells.
  • HPV RNA Test: This test detects the presence of RNA from the HPV virus. It is typically used in specific cases to detect high-risk HPV and assess the likelihood of cervical abnormalities. RNA testing may provide more information about whether the virus is actively replicating.
  • Real-time PCR (RT-PCR) technique: Newer kits use a chip-based real-time PCR (RT-PCR) technique, which is known for its accuracy and speed. RT-PCR allows for rapid detection and quantification of HPV DNA or RNA.

In summary, the HPV test procedure involves:

• Collecting a sample of cells from the cervix using a brush or swab.
• Sending the sample to a lab for analysis.
• Using HPV DNA, RNA, or RT-PCR testing methods to detect the presence of high-risk HPV strains.

The entire procedure usually takes only a few minutes. You may experience some mild discomfort or spotting afterward, but this is usually temporary.

Understanding Results

Understanding your HPV test results is crucial for making informed decisions about your health. Here's a breakdown of what different results mean:

• Availability: Test results are typically available within a few days to a week, depending on the lab and the testing method used. Your healthcare provider will notify you when the results are ready and schedule a follow-up appointment to discuss them.

• Negative Result: A negative HPV test result means that high-risk HPV strains were not found in the sample. This is generally good news and indicates that you are at a lower risk of developing cervical cancer. However, it's important to continue with regular cervical cancer screening, as recommended by your doctor, as HPV infections can occur at any time.

• Positive Result: A positive HPV test result means that one or more high-risk HPV strains were detected in the sample. This does not necessarily mean that you have cancer. It simply means that you have an HPV infection that could potentially lead to precancerous changes in the cervix. Further tests, such as a Pap smear or colposcopy (a procedure to examine the cervix more closely), may be required to check for any precancerous changes.

• HPV Type: If the test identifies a specific high-risk strain, such as HPV 16 or 18, your healthcare provider may recommend further monitoring or treatment. These strains are associated with a higher risk of cervical cancer. The specific management plan will depend on factors such as your age, medical history, and the results of other tests.

In summary, interpreting HPV test results involves:

• Understanding that a negative result means no high-risk HPV was detected.
• Knowing that a positive result means high-risk HPV was detected, requiring further evaluation.
• Recognizing that the specific HPV type identified can influence the management plan.

It's essential to discuss your HPV test results with your healthcare provider. They can explain the results in detail, answer any questions you may have, and recommend the most appropriate course of action.

Costs in India

The cost of an HPV test in India can vary depending on several factors, including the lab, the testing method used, and the location. Here's a general overview of the costs you can expect:

• Redcliffe Labs: INR 1450
• DNA Labs India: INR 5000 (includes sample collection, analysis, and interpretation). They also offer the "HPV Human Papilloma Virus Detection & Genotyping Qualitative PCR DNA Test" at this price, which can detect 12 high-risk and 2 low-risk HPV genotypes.
• LabsAdvisor: States an average cost of INR 1620 if booked through their services.
• HPV Viral Load Quantitative Test (DNA Labs India): INR 7650
• Metropolis Healthcare: Cervical Screening-1 (Conventional PAP & HPV-DNA) - Smear & LBC Price in Mumbai is ₹ 3,075
• Ganesh Diagnostic: Offers HPV tests at a discounted price of INR 1350 (original price INR 1800).

Please note that these costs are approximate and may vary. It is always advisable to confirm the price with the specific lab or healthcare provider before undergoing the test.

Factors that can affect the cost of an HPV test include:

• Type of Test: Different HPV testing methods, such as HPV DNA, HPV RNA, and RT-PCR, may have different costs.
• Lab Location: The cost of the test may vary depending on the location of the lab (e.g., metropolitan cities vs. smaller towns).
• Additional Services: Some labs may include sample collection, analysis, and interpretation in the price of the test, while others may charge separately for these services.
• Insurance Coverage: Some health insurance plans may cover the cost of HPV testing, especially when it is recommended as part of routine cervical cancer screening. Check with your insurance provider to see if your plan covers the test.

In summary, the cost of an HPV test in India can range from approximately ₹1350 to ₹7650, depending on the lab, testing method, and location. It's important to check with the specific lab or healthcare provider for accurate pricing and to inquire about insurance coverage.

How Ayu Helps

Ayu helps you manage your health records and appointments seamlessly. You can store your HPV test results and other medical information securely on the app, making it easy to track your health history and share it with your healthcare provider.

FAQ

Here are some frequently asked questions about the HPV test:

Q1: How often should I get an HPV test?

• The recommended frequency of HPV testing depends on your age, medical history, and previous test results. Generally, women aged 30 and older should get an HPV test every 5 years if the results are negative. Your doctor can provide personalized recommendations based on your individual needs.

Q2: Can the HPV test detect all types of HPV?

• No, the HPV test primarily detects high-risk HPV types that are associated with cervical cancer. It may not detect low-risk HPV types that cause genital warts.

Q3: Is the HPV test painful?

• The HPV test is generally not painful, although you may experience some mild discomfort or pressure during the procedure. The discomfort is usually temporary and resolves quickly.

Q4: What if my HPV test is positive and my Pap smear is normal?

• If your HPV test is positive and your Pap smear is normal, your doctor may recommend repeat testing in one year to see if the HPV infection has cleared on its own. They may also recommend further testing or monitoring depending on the specific HPV type detected.

Q5: Can men get an HPV test?

• HPV tests are not routinely performed on men for screening purposes. However, men may be tested for HPV if they have visible genital warts or if they are being evaluated for oropharyngeal cancer.

Q6: Does a positive HPV test mean I have cervical cancer?

• No, a positive HPV test does not mean you have cervical cancer. It means that you have an HPV infection that could potentially lead to precancerous changes in the cervix. Further testing is needed to determine if any precancerous changes are present.

Q7: Can I get vaccinated against HPV after a positive test?

• While the HPV vaccine is most effective when given before exposure to HPV, it may still provide some benefit even after a positive test. Talk to your doctor about whether HPV vaccination is right for you.

Q8: Are there any home-based HPV test kits available in India?

• Yes, some home-based HPV test kits are available in India. However, it's crucial to ensure that the kit is approved by relevant health authorities and that the lab processing the sample is reputable. Discuss with your doctor before using a home-based test kit to ensure it is appropriate for your situation.