HPV detection in a smear - Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Message Board

Clare 57 · 07-07-2009, 07:41 AM

Assuming a male partner has HPV and it was not detected in a smear test 3 years ago and then the test from a new smear shows CIN 3 could the HPV virus have been dormant in the body of my partner and only have come out between the 2 smears or should it have been detected in the smear 3 years ago? assuming a monogamous relationship

Pickle Eyes · 07-11-2009, 02:19 PM

It is entirely likely that the virus was there, causing damage for 3 years. It just wasn't detected. This could be because the virus wasn't present OR, more likely, the viral load wasn't high enough to be detected by the test. The pap is only a screening tool, not a definitive test. The pap (or an HPV test) only samples part of the cervix, not all of it.

I hope that helps.