Can you test negative for HPV and have an abnormal Pap?
Special tests can be performed on the Pap smear specimen to detect certain types (strains) of “high-risk” HPV that have a strong association with cervical cancer. However, just because this test is negative does not mean that a patient may not have been exposed to a low-risk strain of HPV.
What does it mean if your Pap is abnormal but HPV is negative?
Negative HPV test result: High-risk HPV was not found. You should have the test again in 5 years. You may need to come back sooner if you had abnormal results in the past. Positive HPV test result: High-risk HPV was found.
Is a negative HPV test good?
NIH study finds negative HPV screening test result is a better predictor of low cervical cancer risk than a negative Pap test. A drawing of HPV virus attacking cervical cancer cells.
When should I repeat Pap if ASC-US and negative HPV?
HPV testing (high risk types) is the preferred method for triage of ASCUS results using liquid cytology for ages 25-65. If 21-24 years, repeat PAP in 12 months. Screening practice should not change on the basis of HPV vaccination.
When should I repeat Pap if ascus and negative HPV?
Can you have a negative HPV test and still have HPV?
The original negative Pap test was confirmed in 98.6% of these cases, and a cellular abnormality was found in only 1.4% (6 patients). This data supports that most patients with a negative Pap and a positive HPV just have an HPV infection.
How common is a false negative HPV test?
The false negative rate of the HPV test in ASCUS/LSIL has been reported as 3.7% to 18.2% [14,15,16].
Can you have Ascus without HPV?
ASCUS may also appear in women with low hormone levels and those with benign growths, such as cysts or polyps. The presence of HPV is linked to cervical cancer. If no HPV cells are found, additional testing should be done every three years, according to CDC guidelines.
What is the most common cause of an abnormal Pap smear?
Cause. Most abnormal Pap tests are caused by HPV infections. Other types of infection—such as those caused by bacteria, yeast, or protozoa (Trichomonas)—sometimes lead to minor changes on a Pap test called atypical squamous cells.