Abstract
HPV test should be performed in clearly defined clinical situations only. HPV status is used along with other prebioptic methods to preciselly define the risk of actual presence of severe cervical dysplasia in these cases.
Moreover, the result of HPV test predicts the cummulative risk of cervical precancer in the future. These data are utilized in order to optimize the screening strategy as well as to individualize the follow-up of high-risk patients.
On the other hand, the result of inadequately indicated HPV test not only increases the stress of the patient, but leads to cummulation of further tests and surgical overtreatment in some cases. The aim of this review is to summarize the clinical indications for HPV test and to assist with the design of further clinical management.