Abstract

Objectives: To evaluate the sensitivity and accuracy of the HPV DNA test in conjunction with Thinprep cytology test as a screening method of human papillomavirus (HPV) infection.

Method: In our retrospective study, 158 women with age group 21-70 years having positive thin cytology test were recruited. A computerized search identified patients with ASCUS, LSIL, HSIL in Thinprep test results and high risk HPV DNA testing and cervical biopsy results of these patients.

Results: Out of 158 patients, HPV DNA tests were positive in 52 (32.9%) and negative in 106 (67.1%). High grade CIN and Carcinoma Cervix were commonly associated with ASCUS and HSIL as CIN I, II-III, III, Carcinoma Cervix, were 53.6%, 24.3%, 22.2% and 15% respectively for ASCUS (n=67); and 0%, 63.2%, 77.8%, 75% for HSIL (n=49). HPV DNA positive extremely favors CIN II-III, III and cervical cancer as Human Papilloma Virus DNA test were positive in 22 (78.6%) out of 28 cases of CIN I, 36 (97.5%) out of 37 cases of CIN II-III, 9 (100%) out of 9 cases of CINIII and 4 (100%) out of 4 cases of cervical cancer. There was significant correlation of TCT with HPV, age and CIN (P<0.0001). HPV DNA was common in increasing age group as compared to young age (21-30 years, n=39 [46.2%] vs. 61-70 years, n=4 [100%]).

Conclusion: Combined thin cytology test along with HR HPV DNA test has great value in determining high grade of cervical intraepithelial neoplasia and cervical eoplasia.

Keywords: Human papilloma virus, cervical intraepithelial neoplasia, squamous intraepithelial neoplasia, atypical squamous cells thin cytology test