Evidence note 41
What is the clinical and cost effectiveness of human
papillomavirus (HPV) testing, followed by liquid-based cytology
triage of positive results, in primary screening for cervical
cancer?
Key points
- In primary screening for cervical
cancer, HPV testing followed by conventional cytology triage of
positive results is highly sensitive and highly specific for the
detection of CIN3+ (CIN3, carcinoma in situ and cervical
cancer).
- HPV testing followed by conventional
cytology triage of positive results is more sensitive than cytology
alone for the detection of CIN3+.
- In women 35 years and older, HPV
testing followed by conventional cytology triage of positive
results is more specific than cytology alone. More evidence is
required to establish relative specificity in women aged 20–35
years.
- Primary HPV testing allows the
screening interval to be safely extended to at least 6 years.
- Primary HPV testing followed by
conventional cytology triage of positive results, with a 5-year
screening interval, may be cost effective compared with 3-yearly
conventional cytology.
The content of this evidence
note was accurate and based upon the most up to date evidence
available at the date of first publication. Readers are asked to
consider that new trials and technologies may have emerged since
first publication and the evidence presented may no longer be
current.
Published Date: 23 March 2012
