Use of DNA tests for human Papillomavirus infection by US clinicians, 2004

Since 1999, human papillomavirus (HPV) DNA tests have been approved only for abnormal cervical cytology management and as an adjunct to cervical cytology screening. To assess HPV DNA testing practices, we mailed surveys to 6906 randomly selected clinicians in mid-2004. Awareness (87%) and ever use (67%) of HPV DNA tests was high. Test users were more likely than nonusers to be obstetricians/gynecologists or midwives, to be female, and to serve mainly privately insured patients. Respondents reported ever using HPV DNA tests for both approved and nonapproved indications, which included testing for HPV infection in women with anogenital warts or other sexually transmitted diseases, in their sex partners, and in men. Interventions are needed to discourage HPV DNA test use for nonapproved indications.