HPV molecular testing involves the detection of HPV viral DNA in cervical cells collected during a pelvic examination. Molecular testing is utilized to detect high-risk HPV (HR-HPV) types. The testing can be performed as follows:
- Primary screening for HPV with or without a Pap test
- Follow-up on abnormal Pap smear cytology
- Triage of atypical squamous cells of undetermined significance (ASC-US) Pap smear results