What Does a Positive Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Test Result Mean?

A positive result for human papillomavirus (HPV) indicates that the body is infected with HPV. HPV is mainly transmitted through sexual contact. For example, women who have multiple sexual partners, engage in frequent sexual activity, or do not pay attention to hygiene during sexual activity are easily infected with HPV. Sometimes, HPV can also be transmitted through indirect contact, such as contact with the clothing or secretions of patients infected with condyloma acuminata. If a person is diagnosed with a positive HPV test, they need to cooperate with the doctor for further examination.

Human papillomavirus (HPV) belongs to the Papillomavirus genus of the Papovaviridae family. It is a spherical DNA virus that can cause squamous epithelial proliferation in human skin and mucosa. It manifests as common warts, genital warts (condyloma acuminata), and other symptoms.

1. Sexual transmission;

2. Close contact;

3. Indirect contact: through contact with the clothing, daily necessities, and utensils of infected individuals;

4. Iatrogenic infection: healthcare workers may become infected themselves or transmit the virus to patients due to inadequate protection during treatment and care;

5. Mother-to-child transmission: through close contact during childbirth when the infant passes through the mother's birth canal.