HPV-DNA test in Milan
What is the HPV-DNA test?
HPV-DNA testing represents an advanced diagnostic test aimed at identifying Human Papillomavirus (HPV) DNA in cervical cells. This virus is recognized as a major risk factor for the development of precancerous and cancerous lesions of the cervix. The uniqueness of this test lies in its high sensitivity and specificity, allowing it to accurately detect the presence of the virus, even when it has not yet caused cellular changes visible under the microscope.
HPV is a widespread sexually transmitted virus, with more than 100 different types, at least 14 of which are considered to be at high oncogenic risk. The ability of the HPV-DNA test to distinguish between different HPV types, especially those at high risk, makes it a crucial tool in the prevention of cervical cancer.
What is the HPV-DNA test used for?
HPV-DNA testing is designed primarily for cervical cancer prevention, allowing high-risk HPV infections to be identified before they can cause precancerous or cancerous lesions. Its application is particularly effective in the context of screening programs, where early identification of the virus allows for close monitoring of women at risk and early intervention with targeted treatments, thereby significantly reducing the risk of progression to cancer.
In addition, the HPV-DNA test is used in combination with the Pap test (cervical cytology) in the follow-up of women who have shown cytologic abnormalities, to assess the need for further diagnostic investigations such as colposcopy. In some settings, the test is also used as the first screening approach in women older than 30 years, given its high reliability in detecting high-risk HPV.
This combined screening strategy, which integrates the efficacy of the HPV-DNA test with the specificity of the Pap test, is currently the most advanced and safest approach to cervical cancer prevention, providing optimal protection for women.
How is it performed
Performing HPV-DNA testing is simple and noninvasive. The procedure is similar to that of the Pap test: during a gynecological examination, the doctor introduces a small instrument, called a speculum, into the vagina to visualize the cervix. He then uses a soft brush or swab to take a sample of cells from the cervical surface. This sample is then sent to a specialized laboratory, where it will be analyzed to identify HPV DNA.
Il processo di raccolta del campione è generalmente rapido e causa al massimo un leggero disagio, ma non è doloroso. La sensibilità del test permette di rilevare anche una minima presenza del virus, offrendo una diagnosi precoce e accurata.
Una volta effettuato, i risultati del test possono richiedere da qualche giorno a qualche settimana per essere elaborati, a seconda delle pratiche del laboratorio. Ricevere un risultato positivo al test HPV-DNA non significa avere il cancro, ma indica la necessità di ulteriori valutazioni e, possibilmente, di un monitoraggio più stretto.
How to prepare for the exam? Useful pointers
Preparation for the HPV-DNA test is simple and follows similar directions as for the Pap test. For reliable results, it is recommended to avoid sexual intercourse, the use of internal tampons, intimate cleansers, spermicidal foams, and any vaginal treatment in the 24-48 hours before the test. These precautions help ensure that the sample collected is as clear as possible and is not altered by foreign substances.
Also, it is preferable to schedule the test when you are not menstruating, as blood can interfere with the analysis of virus DNA. If possible, choosing a date in the middle of your menstrual cycle may be ideal.
When booking the test, it is important to inform your doctor of any medical conditions or medication intake, as some treatments may affect the test results.
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