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Diagnosing HPV (Genital Human Papillomavirus)

HPV Fact Sheet (PDF 73 KB)

Genital HPV infection is diagnosed using a pap test for women; however, there are no HPV tests approved for men. Pap tests are a screening tool for cervical cancer or pre-cancerous changes on the cervix, which often result from HPV infection. In women with mild pap test abnormalities or women over 30 years of age, a more specific test is available to test for HPV DNA, which can help determine the next course of action (i.e. further testing or treatment).

A medical provider may diagnose genital warts using visual inspection. Unfortunately, if there are no visible symptoms, many people go undiagnosed.

HPV : General Information | Symptoms | Prevention |
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Please Note: All information is general in nature and should not substitute seeking proper medical attention.

Citation: This information has been compiled from resources provided by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). For more information on the CDC, visit their website at: http://www.cdc.gov/.