Publication:

How useful is HPV-DNA test for screening of cervical cancer: a prospective study

Background The aim of present study was to evaluate the utility of HPV-DNA testing in cervical cancer screening.

Methods The study included 110 women presenting to the Gynaecological OPD of SMI Hospital who were subjected to HPV DNA test and one or more of other tests like cytology, colposcopy and histopathological examination. The results were evaluated by standard statistical methods.

Results Out of 110 patients in whom HPV-DNA testing was done, 24 had positive result, 83 had negative result and 3 had borderline test result. Sensitivity & Specificity of HPV-DNA testing was calculated to be 90% and 84.61% respectively. Its positive predictive value and negative predictive value were 69.23% and 95.66%. The percentage of false negative was calculated to be 10% and that of false positive was 15.38%.

Conclusions In our study, the sensitivity and negative predictive value of HPV-DNA testing was found to be more as compared to its specificity and positive predictive value. Widespread HPV testing for primary cervical cancer screening is not recommended as it will increase the volume of HPV testing and will not be cost- effective. It may be used for secondary screening in patients with abnormal or (ASC) cytology results as this will help in their subsequent management.