Human Papilloma Virus – HPV

Testing Indications

The preferred methods for routine HPV diagnosis include molecular testing and immunohistochemistry. PHO does not perform either of these tests for HPV. If molecular testing for routine cervical cancer screening or ASCUS triage is required, contact your local private community laboratory for submission and testing information.

The National Microbiology Lab (NML) offers reference and confirmation testing only. If your request meets the NML patient criteria described at https://cnphi.canada.ca/gts/reference-diagnostic-test/4817?labId=1017, please follow the specimen collection and handling instructions below.

Limitations

National Microbiology Lab ( Winnipeg) offers HPV testing for reference and confirmation only. Samples for routine cervical cancer screening or ASCUS triage are not accepted unless part of pre-arranged collaborative study. Please visit https://cnphi.canada.ca/gts/reference-diagnostic-test/4817?labId=1017 for more details.

Preparation Prior to Transport

Label the specimen with the patient’s full name, date of collection and one other unique identifier such as the patient’s date of birth or Health Card Number. Failure to provide this information may result in rejection or testing delay.

Special Instructions

Biopsies should be frozen immediately and shipped on dry ice. Swabs should be shipped on ice packs.

Test Frequency and Turnaround Time (TAT)

HPV testing is a referred out test and is performed at the National Microbiology Laboratory (NML) in Winnipeg.

Turnaround time is up to 28 days from receipt by PHO laboratory.

Reporting

Results are reported to the ordering physician or health care provider as indicated on the requisition.

HPV is detected using nested PCR followed by genotyping using Luminex technology at NML.

Refer to https://cnphi.canada.ca/gts/reference-diagnostic-test/4817?labId=1017 for more information on the assay, limitations, and genotypes detected.