Your Diagnosis: Human Papillomavirus (HPV)

Your recent laboratory test has revealed that you tested positive for Human Papillomavirus (HPV). HPV is a virus that causes most cellular changes on the cervix. There are many types of HPV, including high-risk types and low-risk types. High-risk HPV is found in more than 95% of both cervical precancerous conditions and actual cervical cancer. Although high-risk HPV indicates that you may be at an increased risk for developing cervical cancer, it is important to understand that a diagnosis of high-risk HPV does not necessarily mean that you have cervical cancer. Low-risk HPV is rarely found in cervical cancer and is more likely to be linked to genital warts or other noncancerous-related infections. Your HPV test results must be reviewed in conjunction with your Pap test results to determine the most appropriate follow-up plan.

HPV Background Information

HPV is one of the more common sexually transmitted infections and is the leading cause of both cervical precancerous conditions and actual cervical cancer. All women 18 and over (and younger women who are sexually active) should have a Pap test during their annual pelvic examination. In addition to the Pap test, an HPV test can also be ordered by your doctor. More often, HPV testing is done as follow-up to an abnormal Pap test. The test can determine whether one or more high-risk types caused the abnormal Pap test result. In many cases, abnormal cervical cells may resolve on their own. However, some untreated cervical cell changes can lead to cervical cancer.

Facts about HPV

• HPV is very common, but most people don’t know they have it. It is passed from one person to another during sex.
• There are over 100 different types of HPV. However, most types don’t cause any problems. Some types can cause genital warts that you can see or feel.
• A few types of HPV can slowly lead to cervical cancer if they are not treated. These types do not cause warts or bumps.

Facts about Cervical Cancer

• The American Cancer Society estimates that approximately 13,000 new cases of cervical cancer will be diagnosed this year.
• The five-year survival rate for cervical cancer is greater than 90%.
• Risk factors for cervical cancer include, but are not limited to: HPV infection, sexual activity at a young age, a history of multiple sexual partners, smoking and conditions that compromise the immune system, such as HIV infection.

Follow-up Options for HPV

Follow-up will be determined after your clinician reviews your HPV test results in
conjunction with your Pap test results.

If you are HPV positive (either high- or low-risk group) and your Pap test result is within normal limits, your clinician may choose to monitor you with more frequent follow-up Pap tests.

If you are HPV negative, and your Pap test result is within normal limits, this indicates that you are currently at low-risk for cervical cancer or precancerous disease. Your clinician will discuss your schedule for routine follow-up depending on your clinical history.

If your Pap test result is abnormal, regardless of your HPV result, please refer to the Patient Education Report that corresponds with your Pap test result.

Important Questions to Ask Your Doctor

• For my condition, what follow-up options do I have?
• What do you suggest and why?
• What are the potential risks or side effects to this option?
• When do you recommend a repeat HPV test?

Sources for Additional Information

AmeriPath: 800-330-6565
American Cancer Society: www.cancer.org or 800-227-2345
National Cancer Institute: www.nci.nih.gov or 800-4-CANCER
WebMD: www.webmd.com

This report is intended for patient education and information only. It does not constitute advice, nor should it be taken to suggest or replace professional medical care from your physician. Your treatment options may vary, depending upon medical history and current condition. Only your physician and you can determine your best option. Provided to you as a service by AmeriPath, Inc.