HPV (Human papillomavirus)

What is HPV?

HPV is the name of a group of viruses. There are about 40 types of HPV (Human papillomavirus) that are sexually transmitted, affecting the genitals of men and women. Some types of HPV (for example type 6, type 11, cause changes called genital warts, while other types, which are called high risk for example type 16, type 18 and others, can cause CIN changes (abnormal cell growth) which lead to the development of cervical cancer.

HOW CAN I GET INFECTED WITH HPV?

HPV is transmitted by genital contact, most often through vaginal or anal sex. Most people do not know that they have the virus or that they are transmitting it to their partner. Therefore, it is often not possible to know who transmitted the virus and when the infection occurred.

IS THERE ANY OTHER WAYS OF INFECTION WITH HPV?

There are many misconceptions about how you can get HPV. However, it is important to know that condoms do not provide 100% protection against HPV. Since the virus is also found in the skin around the genitals, the virus can very easily pass from the genital region of a man to the vagina, vulva or anus of a woman.

How does HPV cause cervical cancer?

The HPV virus causes abnormal growth of cervical cells. In most cases, HPV goes away on its own. However, when the HPV infection lasts for some time, the abnormal cells can develop into cancer (cancer of the cervix or other parts of the body).

Can I prevent cervix cancer?

Yes. There are tests that can find early signs, even before symptoms develop. In this way, the problem will be found and solved before it turns into cancer. SUCH TESTS ARE PAP TEST AND HPV TEST.

What is the difference between PAP and HPV test?

Both tests allow screening for cervical cancer. The PAP test looks for cell changes that may lead to cancer. The HPV test looks for and detects the HPV virus that causes these changes.

Can I have civics cancer if I have HPV?

Those women who have HPV are advised to follow the advice and instructions of their gynecologists for appropriate testing and treatment.

If you have HPV, your gynecologist will recommend more frequent controls and tests, all in order to find possible changes early and treat them accordingly. Therefore, follow the advice of your gynecologist.

If I have HPV can I get pregnant and have healthy child?

Having HPV does not reduce the chance of pregnancy. The type of HPV you have should not affect the health of the fetus. However, if you need treatment for abnormal cervical cells (caused by HPV), the treatment itself may affect your chances of getting pregnant. Always consult your gynecologist.

TETS FOR DETECTION OF HPV IN AVICENA LABORATORY

The correct diagnosis of HPV is of great importance and is crucial for the further treatment of the patient. At Avicenna Laboratory, state-of-the-art tests are performed with Multiplex real-time PCR technology for highly sensitive and specific molecular detection and genotyping of the HPV virus (Human papillomavirus). This test is the only qualitative and semi-quantitative clinically proven test recommended by the WHO for the detection and individual genotyping of the largest number of HPV types:

19 HIGH RISK TYPES (16, 18, 26, 31, 33, 35, 39, 45, 51, 52, 53, 56, 58, 59, 66, 68, 69, 73, 82)

9 LOW RISK TYPES (6,11, 40, 42, 43, 44, 54, 61, 70)

These HPV genotypes are responsible for over 97% of cases of cervical dysplasia and cervical cancer.

The tests have an internal control based on the detection of the human β-globin gene, which completely eliminates the possibility of false negative results. The tests are validated and CE certified, run with fully automated Real Time PCR instruments and are approved for diagnostic use.

Sample: Cervical and urethral swab.

FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION REGARDING THE TEST, CONSULT YOUR GYNECOLOGIST.