Identification

HPV is a DNA virus associated with cervical lesions, which are classified as low or high grade. High-grade intraepithelial lesions caused by HPV are detected in 95% of cases with premalignant lesions and cervical cancer. While high-grade lesions indicate an increased likelihood of cervical cancer, a positive HPV identification does not necessarily mean cancer. Low-grade lesions may cause genital warts.

General Information

All sexually active women over 18 (or younger) should be tested at least once a year. The annual gynecological examination includes a Pap test. HPV infection is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections and a leading cause of premalignant lesions and cervical cancer. The Pap test can detect an infection and determine the nature of the epithelial cells of the vagina and cervix, indicating whether they are normal or if there are low or high intraepithelial lesions.

HPV Facts

• HPV is quite common, but most people do not know they are infected.

• There are more than 120 different types of HPV.

• Visible warts are caused by HPV types 6 and 11.

• Types 16 and 18 are common in the general population and may lead to cervical cancer if left untreated. They usually do not cause visible warts.

Cervical Cancer

• The American Cancer Society estimates that more than 13,000 women are identified with cervical cancer each year.

• The percentage of women with cervical cancer who survive for at least five years exceeds 90%.

• HPV infection usually occurs during initial sexual contacts. Smoking, habits that negatively affect the immune system, and HIV infection are some risk factors for cervical cancer.

Next Steps

After evaluating the results of the Pap test, your Health Care Provider will guide you through the next steps. If the Pap test results are normal, you are not at immediate risk of developing precancerous or cancerous lesions, and the Pap test should be repeated within a year. If your previous Pap test detected HPV DNA and precancerous lesions (low or high grade), your Health Care Provider may recommend repeating the Pap test sooner. If you receive an abnormal Pap test result for the first time, the next steps will be defined based on the findings. It is important to ask your Health Care Provider:

• Based on my medical history and the results of the Pap test, what options do I have? What tests should I take and what steps should I follow?

• What do you recommend I do next and for what reason?

• Are there any possible risks or side effects/complications?

• When should I repeat the Pap test?