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Brian J. Morris, Barbara R. Rose
Cervical screening in the 21st century: the case for human papillomavirus testing of self-collected specimens
Keywords: cervical cancer, cervical screening, human papillomavirus, hybrid capture, polymerase chain reaction, specimen self-collection, tampon
Cervical screening by Pap smear involves a high rate of false negatives, necessitating frequent testing. Because women do not like the sampling procedure, many avoid being screened. Testing for the causative high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV) types, by PCR or other technologies, on self-collected (tampon) samples permits women to be monitored non-invasively. The high negative predictive value of HPV testing means a greater interval between tests, and thus reduces costs. HPV testing lends itself to primary screening. A kit for self-collection and return to a testing laboratory, followed by practitioner notification and follow-up if required, should result in wider participation. The higher accuracy of HPV testing should lead to improved cervical cancer prevention.
Clin Chem Lab Med 2007;45:577–91.
Clinical Chemical Laboratory Medicine, Walter de Gruyter
Print ISSN: 1434-6621
Volume: 45, 05/2007
Pages: 577 - 591