In women, human papillomavirus (HPV) is usually detected during a routine gynecological examination during which a physician reviews a patient’s medical history and does a pelvic examination. HPV is sometimes diagnosed by the visual identification of genital warts in or around the vagina, on the vulva (opening to the vagina), cervix, groin, or in or around the anus.

HPV infection may also be diagnosed with a Pap smear, which is a screening test used to detect the presence of precancerous and cancerous cells. A Pap smear can reveal changes on the cervix caused by HPV infection. HPV is most often diagnosed with a Pap smear.

In men, HPV is difficult to diagnose. It rarely shows any signs or symptoms and there are no routine tests available to men that may uncover HPV. The presence of genital warts is often the only indication that a man is infected with HPV.

While many genital warts are visible, physicians may use a vinegar solution to help identify flat genital warts. This turns warts white and makes them easier to spot. In women, the warts are often small and cannot be identified by visual inspection. In this case, a physician may perform a colposcopy (a test that uses an instrument with magnifying lenses to view the cervix and vagina). If abnormalities are detected, a sample of tissue may be removed for analysis. A biopsy may be performed on the abnormal tissue to determine the presence or absence of precancerous changes.

For women over age 30 or those with mild Pap smear abnormalities, physicians may perform an HPV test. This is a DNA test that detects most of the high risk types of HPV. It is also a test for cervical cancer. Similar to the Pap test, the HPV test involves using a small soft brush to collect cells from the cervix. The results of HPV DNA testing can help physicians determine whether further tests or treatment is necessary. It should be noted that the HPV DNA test can be performed from a liquid-based Pap smear or as a separate swab.