Your Questions — 11 minutes
What are the differences between the HPV test and Pap test?
The test used to detect the human papillomavirus (HPV test) is gradually becoming the primary screening test for cervical cancer in Quebec. This test is more effective than the traditional Pap test and has other advantages, despite certain limitations. Here’s an overview of the differences between the two tests.
With a sensitivity of 94.6%, the HPV test detects 40% more at-risk cases than the Pap test, which has a sensitivity of 55.4%.
The HPV test detects the presence of the virus even if there are no abnormalities or lesions, which explains its much higher sensitivity. Hence, if high-risk HPV is detected, patients are advised to undergo liquid-based cytology (formerly a Pap test). Furthermore, if the high-risk HPV detected is type 16 or 18, colposcopy will be recommended in addition to a cytology.
For decades, these tests have been the mainstay of Quebec’s cervical cancer screening program. The problem is that the Pap test is not as effective as the HPV test, which was made possible by the development of DNA analysis technologies in the 1980s.
Contrary to a Pap test, which requires a cervical swab in a clinic, an HPV can be done from a vaginal swab, making self-collection possible. Work is currently underway to make this type of sampling available.
Learn more about this Biron's screening tests (HPV test and cytology)
An HPV test should be done every five years starting at age 25.
Previously, the recommended interval for testing was 2 or 3 years from age 21. Now, the PAP test is used as a complement to the HPV test, when its result is positive.
