HPV QUANT – 4
In the IntroLab laboratory, we offer the HPV QUANT – 4 test, which enables quantitative detection and differentiation between four HPV types: low-risk types 6 and 11 and high-risk types 16 and 18. By examining urethral, vaginal, or cervical swabs, our expert staff provides reliable results, allowing you and your doctor to take informed steps toward appropriate treatment and prevention.
When is the HPV QUANT – 4 test performed?
The HPV QUANT – 4 test is conducted when symptoms indicate a possible HPV infection or as part of a routine gynecological examination. It is also recommended for those at increased risk for HPV.
What is HPV QUANT – 4?
HPV QUANT – 4 represents a revolutionary analytical technique in identifying and quantifying Human Papillomavirus (HPV), specifically focusing on four types: low-risk HPV 6 and 11, which cause genital warts, and high-risk HPV 16 and 18.
What is Human Papillomavirus?
Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is a group of over 200 different viruses that belong to the papillomavirus family. Each of these types targets different parts of the body. Some types of HPV can cause warts on the skin, while others may cause changes in the mucous membranes of the genitals, mouth, or throat.
There are low-risk and high-risk types of HPV. Low-risk types can cause benign tissue growths, such as skin warts and genital warts. On the other hand, high-risk types of HPV can cause changes that lead to cancer development, including:
- cervical cancer
- anal canal cancer
- certain types of mouth and throat cancer
The most well-known high-risk types are HPV 16 and HPV 18, which are responsible for the majority of cervical cancer cases.
How does infection occur?
HPV infection is most commonly transmitted through sexual contact, although it can also spread through other means, such as skin contact. Many individuals infected with HPV will not experience any symptoms, and their immune system will eliminate the virus before it causes any problems. However, in some cases, the virus may remain in the body for years, eventually leading to the appearance of symptoms or disease later on.
Preventing HPV infection includes vaccination, regular gynecological check-ups for women, using condoms, and limiting the number of sexual partners.
Sample and preparation: HPV QUANT – 4
- Sample
- Urethral, vaginal, cervical swab
- Sampling
- Urethral, vaginal, cervical swab
- Result in
- 48–72h
- Preparation
- For genital swab collection it is necessary to contact the laboratory in advance to schedule an appointment.
For reliable results, it is ideal to conduct testing before menstruation or two days after, avoiding genital hygiene practices on the day of the test. It is recommended to avoid the use of vaginal creams 3-5 days prior to the analysis, as well as taking samples during antibiotic therapy or 24-48 hours after sexual contact. - Category
- PCR microbiology
Frequently asked questions
How much does HPV typing for 4 types cost and how long do results take?
The HPV QUANT – 4 test at IntroLab laboratory costs 7,000 RSD, and the result is ready in 48–72 hours. The analysis simultaneously detects and quantifies two low-risk types (HPV 6 and 11) and two high-risk types (HPV 16 and 18). If your doctor requests broader typing, HPV typing for 15 types (8,000 RSD) and for 21 types (10,900 RSD) is also available.
How is HPV typing done in women and in men?
HPV QUANT – 4 is done from a swab: in women a vaginal or cervical swab is taken, and in men a urethral swab. Taking the swab is quick and is done by the medical staff of IntroLab laboratory. For genital swabs, you need to contact the laboratory beforehand and schedule an appointment. Four virus types are determined from the same sample: low-risk HPV 6 and 11 and high-risk HPV 16 and 18.
What is the preparation for HPV typing?
For HPV QUANT – 4, you need to schedule an appointment at IntroLab laboratory in advance. The swab is best taken before menstruation or two days after it, and genital hygiene should be avoided on the day of the test. Avoid vaginal creams for 3–5 days before the analysis. The sample is not taken during antibiotic treatment or within 24–48 hours after sexual contact.
What is HPV typing and why is it done?
HPV typing means that the swab is tested not only for whether human papillomavirus is present, but also for which virus type it is. The HPV QUANT – 4 test at IntroLab laboratory distinguishes low-risk types 6 and 11, which cause genital warts, from high-risk types 16 and 18, responsible for most cases of cervical cancer. It is done when there are symptoms, as part of a gynecological examination, or when the risk is increased.