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Sexually transmitted infections

Genital Warts HPV Interpretation of Test Results

Interpretation of test results

On a Pap smear, low-grade changes indicate the likely presence of HPV and the need for further testing. A positive HPV DNA test indicates the presence of a high-risk type of HPV, but the test does not specify which type is present. If both are negative, it is unlikely that there is a high-risk HPV infection. If the Pap smear is abnormal but the HPV DNA test is negative, then follow-up testing and further monitoring are indicated. Typing of the HPV is not usually necessary.