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Home›Tests›PCR, STIs and infections›High-risk HPV by PCR/NAAT
Processed at Askabide

High-risk HPV by PCR/NAAT

Detects DNA or other genetic material from high-risk human papillomavirus types in a cervical or vaginal sample.

SampleClinician-collected cervical sample or vaginal sample, only when accepted by the assay in use.
FastingNo fasting required.
Indicative turnaroundThe analytical phase can be completed rapidly; the report is released after controls, validation and according to batch scheduling.
PathwayAt Askabide
Available atDonostia · Gasteiz · Bilbo

Why it is performed

  • Support cervical-cancer screening according to age, history and the applicable programme.
  • Clarify risk after an abnormal cytology result or support follow-up when indicated.
  • Identify infection with high-risk HPV types; it does not diagnose cancer by itself.

How it is performed

A dedicated brush or collection device is gently inserted into the cervix or vagina. The sample is preserved in the manufacturer-specified medium and processed with strict contamination and identity controls.

Preparation

  • Avoid vaginal intercourse, douching, vaginal medicines, creams or tampons for 24–48 hours beforehand unless told otherwise.
  • Tell the team if you are menstruating, pregnant, have had cervical surgery or previous treatment for a high-grade lesion.
  • A negative result very soon after exposure cannot establish a universal 'window period' or exclude a later detectable infection.

How Askabide processes it

At Askabide

Molecular amplification of HPV genetic material. The report will list only the genotypes or groups actually covered by the assay validated at Askabide.

The main analytical phase is performed in the centre’s laboratory, subject to availability and validation.

Results and indicative intervals

Intervals vary by method, analyser, reagent, units, age, sex, pregnancy, menstrual-cycle phase and reference population. The valid interval is the one printed on the laboratory report.
Parameter or resultIndicative referenceHow it is interpreted
Not detectedResultado cualitativoNo high-risk HPV covered by the assay was detected in the sample.
DetectedResultado cualitativoOne or more included types were detected; this does not mean cancer.
GenotypingSegún el kitHPV 16, 18 or other groups may be distinguished only if supported by the assay.
Invalid/inconclusiveRepetición posibleMay reflect insufficient sample, inhibition or internal-control failure.

Important limitations

  • A positive HPV result is not cancer; risk depends on type, persistence, cytology and history.
  • HPV PCR and cervical cytology answer different questions and may complement one another.
  • The test does not cover every HPV type or other sexually transmitted infections.
This website provides general information about clinical laboratory tests and diagnostic procedures. It does not replace an individual clinical assessment or the interpretation of the report issued by the laboratory.
Published reference values are indicative and may vary according to the method, equipment, units and individual characteristics.