human papillomavirus 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. A human papillomavirus test may be done at the same time as a Pap test for cervical cancer screening in women aged 30 to 65 years. A human papillomavirus test may also be done after certain abnormal Pap test results. Also called HPV test.