HPV test

A laboratory test in which cells are tested for DNA or RNA from certain types of human papillomavirus (HPV) that are known to cause cervical cancer. These high-risk types of HPV can also cause other types of cancer, including cancers of the anus, vagina, vulva, penis, and oropharynx. An HPV test may be done at the same time as a Pap test for cervical cancer screening in women aged 30 to 65 years. An HPV test may also be done after certain abnormal Pap test results. Also called human papillomavirus test.