HPV tests
How requests for HPV testing are processed.
The benefit of a negative HPV result is its negative predictive value – a negative HPV result indicates that a patient is at very low risk of developing cervical disease. The negative predictive value of both DNA and mRNA testing is the same. DNA tests detect presence of virus only. A mRNA test detects the presence of viral oncogenic expression.
Requests for Cervical Cytology (PAPT) only will no longer be processed without HPV. HPV testing will be charged.
Requests for PAPT
Cervical Cytology
Code
PAPT will incl. HPV
Sample Reqs
TPV
Turnaround
2-3 days
Special instructions
If PAPT is requested as a single test, HR-HPV will be undertaken additionally, and a combined report will be issued. PAPT and HPV will be charged.
Requests for PAPT with selected HPV (HPV or HP20 or HPVT)
PAPT and HPV
Code
PAPT + HPV
Sample Reqs
TPV
Turnaround
2-3 days
Special instructions
If PAPT and HPV are requested together, results will be given as a combined report, PAPT and selected HPV test will be charged.
Requests for HPV as the PRIMARY TEST will reflex to PAPT if HPV is Detected/Positive. PAPT will NOT be charged.
HPV (HR mRNA types 16, 18 + others)
Code
HPV
Sample Reqs
TPV
Turnaround
2-3 days
Special instructions
If HPV is DETECTED/POSITIVE, cervical cytology (PAPT) will be processed without charge. The PAPT will be processed from the same vial.
Requests for HP20 as a single test
HPV (Individual low & high risk DNA subtypes)
Code
HP20
Sample Reqs
TPV/PCR
Turnaround
2-3 days
Special instructions
HPV low and high risk DNA subtypes will be reported individually (5 low and 14 high risk). If HPV is DETECTED/POSITIVE, cervical cytology (PAPT) will be processed without charge. The PAPT will be processed from the same vial.
Requests for HPVT as a single test
HPV (DNA and reflexed mRNA)
Code
HPVT
Sample Reqs
TPV
Turnaround
3 days
Special instructions
If one or more of DNA types 16, 18, 31, 33, 45 are DETECTED/POSITIVE, reflex testing for expression of E6/E7 oncoproteins will be undertaken and cervical cytology (PAPT) will be processed without charge. The PAPT will be processed from the same vial.
More details
See the Sample Requirements page for an explanation of the sample requirements code listed above.
See the Special Instructions Legend page for a full list of special instructions.
Last-updated: 28/02/2020
HPV/PAPT Combined Report
Where HPV result is reported with Cervical Cytology, a recommendation for patient management will be given, based on the combined findings.