HUMAN PAPILLOMA VIRUS (HPV)

The wart virus (HPV) is a common finding in pap smears. One may not be aware of any warts or other symptoms but it can be detected on the pap smear.

There are different sub-types of this HPV infection and a few have been linked to cancer of the cervix. Unfortunately the pap smear cannot detect which type is associated with cancer of the cervix. However, there are special tests that can pick up the virus type.

If HPV is detected on the pap smear then you will need a smear every 6 months for a year. If the virus is still present after that then a colposcopy is necessary to be certain that there are no other cell changes on the cervix.

If the smear returns to normal then after two normal results, annual smears are satisfactory.

Obviously if the colposcopy shows abnormal cells then the appropriate management for the stage of CIN would be necessary. - See Abnormal Pap Smears.