HPV typing

HPV typing is a laboratory procedure that identifies specific strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV) present in tissue or body fluid samples. There are over 100 types of HPV, some of which cause genital warts, while others can lead to precancerous changes and cancer, particularly cervical cancer, as well as other types of cancer such as anal, penile, vulvar, vaginal, and oropharyngeal cancer.

Why is typing done?

Different types of HPV have different risks for cancer development. The most well-known high-risk types are HPV types 16 and 18, which are responsible for the majority of cervical cancer cases. Typing helps assess the risk for the development of precancerous changes or cancer. The detection of high-risk types of HPV may indicate the need for closer monitoring and potential interventions to prevent cancer development.

How is it performed?

The procedure typically begins with the collection of a tissue or fluid sample, usually during a Pap test or colposcopy. The sample is sent to a laboratory where molecular analysis (most commonly PCR - polymerase chain reaction) is conducted to detect the virus's DNA or RNA. The test can identify specific types of HPV present in the sample.