Pap Smear

Table of contents

Pap Smear - what is it and how the test is done

HPV (Human papillomavirus ) is transmitted through sexual intercourse and causes nearly 100% of cancers of the cervix in women. It is estimated that 1 in 2 women will contract the virus in their lifetime. As with most sexually transmitted diseases, HPV infection is typically asymptomatic. However, if the infection becomes chronic, and if the HPV type is classified as high or medium risk, it is possible that the infection progresses towards the development of a precancerous lesion and then a malignant neoplasm, carcinoma of the cervix. uterine.

HPV test allows an absolutely early diagnosis of high and medium risk HPV infection, which can be easily treated without further problems, thus interrupting the sequence towards the development of the tumor.

Cervical cancer is one of the most deadly cancers to occur in females. Like every other cancer, it is usually diagnosed late when it is challenging to reverse the condition.

For this purpose, every female of her reproductive age is recommended to undergo a screening protocol that helps rule out any suspicious changes that might predispose her to develop cervical cancer during a later stage of her life.

The Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is responsible for causing cervical cancer. It is diagnosed using a Pap smear that involves obtaining a sample of the cervical cells using a brush. These cervical cells are then analysed under a microscope to look for any changes that might make them appear abnormal or cancerous.

Suppose there is any change in the morphology of these cells. In that case, a doctor gets on board to deal with the situation accordingly and work out the following action plan for the patient.

Common conditions covered by an HPV Test

Anogenital warts Recurrent respiratory papillomatosis Anogenital cancers Oropharyngeal cancers Cervical squamous cell carcinoma Oral focal epithelial hyperplasia

Where to get a Pap Test in Italy

Pap Smear at-Home and Self Tests

Pap Smear FAQs

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is the name of a group of viruses that cause infection on the skin surface. It is one of the most common viral infections. HPV infection can cause genital warts.

It is mainly contracted by direct skin-to-skin contact during intimate sexual contact, penetrative or non-penetrative sexual contact.

Pap smear testing is available, and it involves collecting a sample of cervical cells with a brush. The cells are further processed and checked under a microscope for evaluation.

Though mostly harmless, HPV can cause abnormal cells, which can sometimes lead to cancers in both men and women, including cervical, vaginal, vulval, anal, head and neck, and penile cancers.

There are only preventive measures available currently. HPV is vaccine-preventable.

An HPV Test in Italy costs on average 90 Euros. (information based on our data as of September 2022)