Infectious agent detection by nucleic acid (dna or rna); human papillomavirus (hpv), high-risk types (e.g., 16, 18, 31, 33, 35, 39, 45, 51, 52, 56, 58, 59, 68) for cervical cancer screening, must be performed in addition to pap test
HCPCS code
Name of the Procedure:
Common Name(s): HPV Test
Technical/Medical Term: Infectious agent detection by nucleic acid (DNA or RNA); human papillomavirus (HPV), high-risk types (G0476)
Summary
This procedure detects high-risk types of human papillomavirus (HPV) that can lead to cervical cancer. It involves testing a sample for the presence of HPV DNA or RNA and is performed in addition to a Pap test.
Purpose
Medical Conditions/Problems Addressed:
Screening for cervical cancer and its precursors.
Goals/Expected Outcomes:
Early detection of high-risk HPV types to prevent cervical cancer development.
Indications
Symptoms/Conditions Warranting Procedure:
- Regular cervical cancer screening, especially for women over 30.
- Abnormal Pap test results.
Patient Criteria:
- Women aged 30-65.
- Women under 30 with specific risk factors or abnormal screening results.
Preparation
Pre-Procedure Instructions:
- Schedule the test at least 5 days after your period ends.
- Avoid intercourse, douching, and using vaginal medications or spermicidal foams for 48 hours before the test.
- Inform your doctor of any medications or health conditions.
Diagnostic Tests or Assessments:
- Previous Pap tests and HPV screenings.
Procedure Description
- The patient lies on an exam table with feet in stirrups.
- A healthcare provider inserts a speculum into the vagina to widen it for easy access to the cervix.
- A swab or brush is used to collect cells from the cervix.
The sample is then sent to a lab for analysis for high-risk HPV DNA/RNA.
Tools/Equipment Used:
- Speculum, cytobrush/swab, collection vial.
Anesthesia or Sedation:
- None required.
Duration
Typically takes:
- 5 to 10 minutes for sample collection.
Setting
Where Performed:
- Outpatient clinic, gynecologist's office.
Personnel
Healthcare Professionals Involved:
- Gynecologist, Nurse Practitioner, or Physician's Assistant.
Risks and Complications
Common Risks:
- Mild discomfort or cramping.
- Light spotting post-procedure.
Rare Complications:
- Infection (extremely rare).
Benefits
Expected Benefits:
- Early detection of cervical precancerous changes.
- Greater accuracy in cervical cancer screening when combined with a Pap test.
Realization Time:
- Lab results are generally available within a week.
Recovery
Post-Procedure Care:
- No special care needed; resume normal activities immediately.
Expected Recovery Time:
- Immediate, no downtime.
Restrictions/Follow-Up:
- Follow any additional recommendations from your healthcare provider.
Alternatives
Other Treatment Options:
- Pap test alone.
- Visual inspection with acetic acid (VIA), primarily in low-resource settings.
Pros and Cons of Alternatives:
- Pap test alone has lower sensitivity for detecting high-risk HPV.
- VIA is less precise but useful where HPV testing is not available.
Patient Experience
During the Procedure:
- Mild discomfort or pressure similar to a Pap test.
After the Procedure:
Minimal cramping or light spotting.
Pain Management and Comfort Measures:
- Over-the-counter pain relief if needed for cramping.
- Comfort measures like deep breathing to ease any anxiety.