HPV Genotype 16 18 Test: Booking, Price, and Results
About HPV Genotype 16 18 Test: Booking, Price, and Results
| Field | Value |
|---|---|
| Also Known As | HPV 16/18 DNA test, HPV Genotyping test, High-Risk HPV DNA test, HPV-GT, Human Papillomavirus Genotype test |
| Sample Type | Cervical cells (collected via cervical swab using liquid-based cytology medium) |
| Fasting Required | No fasting required |
| Report Time | 3 to 7 working days |
| Recommended For | Women aged 25 to 65 years with a cervix; routine screening is generally recommended from age 30 |
| Price | Starting at ₹1,400 |
What is an HPV Genotype 16 18 Test?
The HPV Genotype 16 18 test is a molecular diagnostic test that detects the DNA of Human Papillomavirus types 16 and 18 in cervical cells. These two strains are classified as high-risk because they account for approximately 70% of cervical cancer cases worldwide. A doctor may prescribe this HPV DNA Genotyping test after an abnormal Pap smear, or as part of routine cervical cancer screening for women aged 25 to 65 years. The sample is a small collection of cells taken from the cervix using a soft brush or swab.
What Does an HPV Genotype 16 18 Test Measure?
The HPV 16 18 test identifies the presence or absence of viral DNA from specific high-risk papillomavirus strains. Some panels also screen for additional high-risk types.
The following parameters may be reported:
| Parameter | What It Detects |
|---|---|
| HPV-16 DNA | Presence of Human Papillomavirus type 16, linked to roughly 60% of cervical cancers |
| HPV-18 DNA | Presence of Human Papillomavirus type 18, associated with 10 to 15% of cervical cancers |
| Other High-Risk HPV Types (if panel) | Twelve additional high-risk strains (types 31, 33, 35, 39, 45, 51, 52, 56, 58, 59, 66, and 68) |
Why Is an HPV Genotype 16 18 Test Done?
This test is used to assess cervical cancer risk and guide clinical follow-up decisions. It helps doctors identify whether a high-risk HPV infection is present, even before any visible cell changes occur.
Common Symptoms That May Require This Test
Most HPV infections produce no symptoms. A doctor may still recommend this High Risk HPV 16 18 test in the following situations:
- An abnormal or unclear Pap smear result
- Unexplained vaginal bleeding between periods
- Bleeding after sexual intercourse
- Unusual or persistent vaginal discharge
- Pelvic pain without a clear cause
- Reaching the recommended screening age (25 to 30 years and above)
Conditions This Test Can Help Detect
The Human Papillomavirus Genotype test can help identify risk for or signs of several conditions:
- Cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN), which refers to precancerous changes in cervical cells
- Cervical cancer, where HPV 16 and 18 together account for about 70% of all cases
- HPV-associated cancers of the vulva, vagina, anus, and oropharynx (throat)
- Persistent high-risk HPV infection requiring closer monitoring
HPV Genotype 16 18 Test for Chronic Disease Monitoring
Women who test positive for HPV 16 or 18 require ongoing monitoring, even if their Pap smear appears normal. Clinical guidelines recommend follow-up testing at regular intervals, typically every 12 months or as advised by a specialist. Persistent infection with the same HPV genotype carries a meaningfully higher risk of progressing to high-grade cervical cell changes compared to a transient or changing infection.
How to Prepare and What to Expect
Preparing correctly for this test helps ensure the sample collected is of good quality and gives the most accurate result.
Do You Need to Fast?
No fasting is required before this test. You can eat and drink normally on the day of collection.
Practical Tips Before Your Test
Following these steps in the days before your appointment helps avoid an invalid or inadequate sample:
- Avoid tampons, vaginal douches, vaginal medicines, and spermicidal creams, foams, or gels for at least 48 hours before the test
- Do not have sexual intercourse for 48 hours before sample collection
- Avoid feminine hygiene products containing carbomer for at least 24 hours before the test
- Do not schedule the test during your menstrual period; wait at least 5 days after your period ends
- Let your healthcare provider know if you are pregnant or have recently had any cervical procedures
Step-by-Step Procedure
- You lie on an examination table with your feet resting in supports called stirrups.
- A healthcare provider gently inserts a smooth instrument called a speculum into the vagina to keep it open and allow a clear view of the cervix.
- A soft brush or small spatula is used to collect a sample of cells from the cervical opening.
- The sample is placed into a liquid-based cytology (LBC) medium, which preserves the cells for laboratory analysis.
- The sealed sample is labelled and dispatched to a NABL-accredited laboratory for real-time PCR testing.
- Results are typically available within 3 to 7 working days and delivered digitally.
Factors That Can Affect Accuracy
Certain factors may affect how reliable the result is:
- Collecting the sample during menstruation
- Recent use of vaginal products, lubricants, or medications
- Inadequate sample volume or cell count
- Improper specimen handling or delayed transport
- Presence of interfering substances in the vaginal environment
Understanding Your HPV Genotype 16 18 Test Results
Results from this test are reported qualitatively, meaning each parameter is either detected or not detected. Always review your results with a doctor who can interpret them in the context of your full medical history.
| Parameter | Normal Result | Abnormal Result |
|---|---|---|
| HPV-16 DNA | Not Detected | Detected |
| HPV-18 DNA | Not Detected | Detected |
| Other High-Risk HPV Types (if panel) | Not Detected | Detected |
A negative result means no high-risk HPV DNA was found in the sample, indicating a very low risk of developing cervical cancer. Repeat testing is generally recommended every 3 to 5 years. A positive result for HPV 16 and/or 18 does not mean cancer is present. It indicates an infection that needs closer follow-up, which may include colposcopy (a procedure to examine the cervix in detail).
These ranges are general guidelines. Your doctor will interpret your results based on your age, health history, and other factors. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalised medical advice.
Results During Special Conditions
People with a weakened immune system, such as those living with HIV, may be less able to clear an HPV infection naturally. This can increase the risk of persistent infection and progression to precancerous changes. Women with HIV are reported to be three times more likely to develop cervical cancer, and more frequent screening is typically recommended for this group. Smoking can also affect cervical health, as tobacco-related compounds damage cervical cell DNA and may reduce the body's ability to fight the infection.
How to Maintain Healthy Levels
These general wellness steps can support cervical health:
- Attend regular cervical cancer screenings as recommended by your doctor, typically every 3 to 5 years
- Discuss HPV vaccination eligibility with your doctor, as it is most effective before exposure to the virus
- Use barrier contraception consistently, as condoms can reduce (though not fully prevent) HPV transmission
Lupin Diagnostics HPV Genotype 16 18 Test Price
The HPV 16 18 test price at Lupin Diagnostics starts at approximately ₹1,400, with no home sample collection option available.
| City | Approximate Price (₹) |
|---|---|
| Bangalore | ₹1,800 |
| Chennai | ₹1,800 |
| Hyderabad | ₹1,800 |
| Kolkata | ₹1,800 |
| Pune | ₹1,800 |
Prices are indicative and may vary by location. Please confirm the current price at the time of booking.
How to Book
- Select the test on the Lupin Diagnostics website.
- Choose your city and preferred time slot.
- Visit your nearest Lupin Diagnostics centre.
- Receive your report via email or WhatsApp within the stipulated turnaround time.
Frequently Asked Questions
A Pap smear examines cervical cells under a microscope to identify abnormal changes, while the HPV 16 and 18 PCR test detects the genetic material of high-risk HPV strains directly. Both tests can be performed on the same cervical sample as part of co-testing. Your doctor may recommend one or both tests depending on your age, risk factors, and screening history.
No. A positive HPV 16 or HPV 18 result does not mean you have cervical cancer. It indicates the presence of a high-risk HPV strain that is associated with an increased risk of developing cervical cancer. Most HPV infections clear naturally, but additional monitoring or tests such as colposcopy may be recommended.
If your HPV genotype test result is negative, repeat screening is generally recommended every 3 to 5 years. Women with previous HPV-positive results, abnormal screening findings, or other risk factors may require more frequent testing as advised by their healthcare provider.
Currently, there is no approved routine HPV screening test for men. HPV-related cancers such as anal, penile, and oropharyngeal cancers can occur in men, but screening recommendations differ from those for cervical cancer. Men with concerns about HPV-related conditions should consult their doctor.
HPV types 16 and 18 are considered the highest-risk strains because they are responsible for approximately 70% of cervical cancer cases worldwide. Identifying these specific genotypes helps healthcare providers assess cancer risk and determine whether further evaluation, such as colposcopy, is needed.
Choose a laboratory that uses PCR-based HPV detection methods and holds NABL accreditation. These factors help ensure that testing is performed using validated procedures and quality standards, improving the reliability of the results.
HPV DNA genotyping tests are generally recommended for women aged 25 to 65 years. Routine co-testing with a Pap smear is commonly advised from age 30 onwards, although screening schedules may vary based on individual risk factors and your doctor's recommendations.
HPV Genotype 16 18 Test: Booking, Price, and Results
