Long term predictive values of cytology and human papillomavirus testing in cervical cancer screening: joint European cohort study

Economic evaluation of HPV DNA test as primary screening method for cervical cancer: A health policy discussion in Greece

Background

HPV test appears to be more effective in cervical cancer (CC) screening. However, the decision of its adoption as a primary screening method by substituting the established cytology lies in the evaluation of multiple criteria. Aim of this study is to evaluate the economic and clinical impact of HPV test as primary screening method for CC.

Methods

A decision tree and a Markov model were developed to simulate the screening algorithm and the natural history of CC. Fourteen different screening strategies were evaluated, for women 25–65 years old. Clinical inputs were drawn from the HERMES study and cost inputs from the official price lists. In the absence of CC treatment cost data, the respective Spanish costs were used after being converted to 2017 Greek values. One-way and probabilistic sensitivity analyses were conducted.

Results

All screening strategies, that offer as primary screening method triennial HPV genotyping (simultaneous or reflex) alone or as co-testing with cytology appear to be more effective than all other strategies, with regards to both annual CC mortality, due to missed disease (-10.1), and CC incidence(-7.5) versus annual cytology (current practice). Of those, the strategy with HPV test with simultaneous 16/18 genotyping is the strategy that provides savings of 1.050 million euros annually. However, when the above strategy is offered quinquennially despite the fact that outcomes are decreased it remains more effective than current practice (-7.7 deaths and -1.3 incidence) and more savings per death averted (1.323 million) or incidence reduced (7.837 million) are realized.

Conclusions

HPV 16/18 genotyping as a primary screening method for CC appears to be one of the most effective strategies and dominates current practice in respect to both cost and outcomes. Even when compared with all other strategies, the outcomes that it generates justify the cost that it requires, representing a good value for money alternative.

Evaluation of TypeSeq, a Novel High-Throughput, Low-Cost, Next-Generation Sequencing-Based Assay for Detection of 51 Human Papillomavirus Genotypes

BACKGROUND

Human papillomaviruses (HPV) cause over 500 000 cervical cancers each year, most of which occur in low-resource settings. Human papillomavirus genotyping is important to study natural history and vaccine efficacy. We evaluated TypeSeq, a novel, next-generation, sequencing-based assay that detects 51 HPV genotypes, in 2 large international epidemiologic studies.

METHODS

TypeSeq was evaluated in 2804 cervical specimens from the Study to Understand Cervical Cancer Endpoints and Early Determinants (SUCCEED) and in 2357 specimens from the Costa Rica Vaccine Trial (CVT). Positive agreement and risks of precancer for individual genotypes were calculated for TypeSeq in comparison to Linear Array (SUCCEED). In CVT, positive agreement and vaccine efficacy were calculated for TypeSeq and SPF10-LiPA.

RESULTS

We observed high overall and positive agreement for most genotypes between TypeSeq and Linear Array in SUCCEED and SPF10-LiPA in CVT. There was no significant difference in risk of precancer between TypeSeq and Linear Array in SUCCEED or in estimates of vaccine efficacy between TypeSeq and SPF10-LiPA in CVT.

CONCLUSIONS

The agreement of TypeSeq with Linear Array and SPF10-LiPA, 2 well established standards for HPV genotyping, demonstrates its high accuracy. TypeSeq provides high-throughput, affordable HPV genotyping for world-wide studies of cervical precancer risk and of HPV vaccine efficacy.

Type-Specific Viral Load and Physical State of HPV Type 16, 18, and 58 as Diagnostic Biomarkers for High-Grade Squamous Intraepithelial Lesions or Cervical Cancer

Purpose

High rate of false-positive tests is a major obstacle to use human papillomavirus (HPV) detection as a diagnostic tool for high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions or cervical cancer (HSIL+). We investigated whether type-specific viral load or physical state of HPV 16, 18, and 58 are useful biomarkers for HSIL+.

Materials and Methods

Type-specific viral loads of E6 and E2 genes in cervical cells from 240, 83, and 79 HPV 16–, 18–, and 58–infected women, respectively, were determined using real-time polymerase chain reaction. Viral loads were normalized to cellular DNA (copy/cell). Total and integrated viral loads and physical state were compared between HSIL+ and controls, and diagnostic value was determined using receiver operating characteristic analysis.

Results

Viral loads of HPV 16, 18, and 58 were significantly different in lesions in the same pathologic grade. High type-specific total viral loads were significantly associated with HSIL+ (odds ratio [OR], 14.065, 39.472, and 7.103 for HPV 16, 18, and 58, respectively). High integrated viral load was related to HSIL+ in women with HPV 16 (OR, 8.242), and integrated state was associated with HSIL+ in women with HPV 18 (OR, 9.443). Type-specific total viral load was significantly associated with HSIL+ (area under curve, 0.914, 0.937, and 0.971 for HPV 16, 18, and 58, respectively), indicating an excellent performance in detecting HSIL+.

Conclusion

Type-specific total viral load may be a powerful diagnostic marker for HSIL+ in HPV 16–, 18–, and 58–infected HSIL+ lesions. If demonstrated in all other high-risk HPV types, this method can lead to a paradigm shift in the strategy of equivocal cytologic abnormalities.

Relative Performance of HPV and Cytology Components of Cotesting in Cervical Screening

Background

The main goal of cervical screening programs is to detect and treat precancer before cancer develops. Human papillomavirus (HPV) testing is more sensitive than cytology for detecting precancer. However, reports of rare HPV-negative, cytology-positive cancers are motivating continued use of both tests (cotesting) despite increased testing costs.

Methods

We quantified the detection of cervical precancer and cancer by cotesting compared with HPV testing alone at Kaiser Permanente Northern California (KPNC), where 1 208 710 women age 30 years and older have undergone triennial cervical cotesting since 2003. Screening histories preceding cervical cancers (n = 623) and precancers (n = 5369) were examined to assess the relative contribution of the cytology and HPV test components in identifying cases. The performances of HPV testing and cytology were compared using contingency table methods, general estimating equation models, and nonparametric statistics; all statistical tests were two-sided.

Results

HPV testing identified more women subsequently diagnosed with cancer (P < .001) and precancer (P < .001) than cytology. HPV testing was statistically significantly more likely to be positive for cancer at any time point (P < .001), except within 12 months (P = .10). HPV-negative/cytology-positive results preceded only small fractions of cases of precancer (3.5%) and cancer (5.9%); these cancers were more likely to be regional or distant stage with squamous histopathology than other cases. Given the rarity of cancers among screened women, the contribution of cytology to screening translated to earlier detection of at most five cases per million women per year. Two-thirds (67.9%) of women found to have cancer during 10 years of follow-up at KPNC were detected by the first cotest performed.

Conclusions

The added sensitivity of cotesting vs HPV alone for detection of treatable cancer affected extremely few women.

Epigenetic IVD Tests for Personalized Precision Medicine in Cancer

Epigenetic alterations play a key role in the initiation and progression of cancer. Therefore, it is possible to use epigenetic marks as biomarkers for predictive and precision medicine in cancer. Precision medicine is poised to impact clinical practice, patients, and healthcare systems. The objective of this review is to provide an overview of the epigenetic testing landscape in cancer by examining commercially available epigenetic-based in vitro diagnostic tests for colon, breast, cervical, glioblastoma, lung cancers, and for cancers of unknown origin. We compile current commercial epigenetic tests based on epigenetic biomarkers (i.e., DNA methylation, miRNAs, and histones) that can actually be implemented into clinical practice.

Primary High-Risk Human Papillomavirus Testing for Cervical Cancer Screening in the United States: Is It Time?

CONTEXT

- The most recent update to cervical cancer screening guidelines offers interim guidance on the use of primary human papillomavirus (HPV) screening, with algorithms for management of results. After decades of screening with pure cytology and a shorter time with adjunctive HPV or cotesting with Papanicolaou (Pap) test and HPV, this is a significant change to our screening methods.

OBJECTIVE

- To briefly review the history of cervical cancer screening, the evidence upon which these interim guidelines were based, the arguments for and against primary HPV testing, and the current state of the field.

DATA SOURCES

- Primary studies, review articles, and commentaries were reviewed.

CONCLUSIONS

- While there is evidence both for and against primary HPV testing, there are a growing number of countries adopting the practice. It would be worthwhile to be informed and prepared for such a change in the United States as well.

Age-specific HPV type distribution in high-grade cervical disease in screened and unvaccinated women

BACKGROUND AND AIM

Age-specific type-distribution of high-risk human papillomavirus (hrHPV) in cervical precancerous lesions is subject to change in the HPV vaccination era. Knowing the pre-vaccination type-distribution helps to anticipate changes induced by mass vaccination and optimize screening.

METHODS

We recruited 1279 women referred to colposcopy for abnormal cytology into a population-based study on HPV type distribution in diagnostic cervical samples (ISRCTN10933736). The HPV genotyping findings were grouped as: HPV16/18+, other hrHPV+ (HPV31/33/35/39/45/51/52/56/58/59/66/68), non-vaccine targeted hrHPV+ (HPV35/39/51/56/59/66/68), low-risk HPV, and HPV negative. We estimated the HPV group-specific prevalence rates according to diagnostic histopathological findings in the age groups of <30 (n = 339), 30-44.9 (n = 614), and ≥45 (n = 326).

RESULTS

Altogether 503 cases with high grade squamous intraepithelial lesion or worse (HSIL+) were diagnosed. More than half, 285 (56.7%) of HSIL+ cases were associated with HPV16/18: 64.3% (101/157) in women <30 years (reference group), 58.4% (157/269) in women 30-44.9 years (risk ratio (RR) 0.91, 95% confidence interval (95% CI) 0.78-1.06), and 35.1% (27/77) in women ≥45 years of age (RR 0.55, 95% CI 0.39-0.75). Conversely, other hrHPV's were associated with 191 (38.0%) of HSIL+: 31.9% (50/157) in women <30, 36.8% (99/269) in women 30-44.9 years, 54.6% (42/77) and in women ≥45 (RR 1.71, 95% CI 1.26-2.33). The proportion of non-vaccine targeted hrHPV and HPV negative HSIL+ increased with advancing age.

CONCLUSIONS

Pre-vaccination HPV type distribution in HSIL+ was distinctly polarised by age with HPV16/18 attributed disease being markedly more prevalent in women aged <30. In the older women the other hrHPV types, however, dominated suggesting a need for more age-dependent screening strategies.

Cervical Cancer, Different Treatments and Importance of Bile Acids as Therapeutic Agents in This Disease

Cervical cancer can be cured, because it has a long preinvasive period. Early diagnosis and treatment of cervical cancer at women are crucial for reducing of rate mortality. Today, there are many methods for detecting premalignant lesions and one of them is a conventional Papanicolaou test. Cervical cancer develops through a series of changes in the epithelium called cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN). The biological and genetic characteristics of the cells at cancer in situ are irreversibly altered and abnormal cells have the potential to metastasize to others anatomical regions. Infection with human Papillomavirus, which is transmitted sexually, is considered the main cause and represent the necessary, but not the only factor for the development of cervical cancer. Types of high risk human Papillomavirus are often associated with invasive cervical cancer. The carcinogenic types of HPV 16 and 18 are responsible for 70% of cervical cancer and about 50% of CIN 3. Primary prevention of cervical cancer is aimed at reducing incidence, control of causes and risk factors. In this scientific work, in addition to explaining the various treatments necessary for the treatment of cervical carcinoma, we were discussed about the anticancer effects of the synthetic derivative of ursodeoxycholic acid, such as HS-1183, and synthetic derivatives of chenodeoxycholic acid such as HS-1199 and HS-1200. Also, the effects of bile acid complexes with metals such as platinum, zinc, nickel, and copper were considered in the effective treatment of cervical cancer. KEY POINTS • Lymphogenic spreading of cervical cancer occurs relatively early in the regional lymph nodes, while this sort of progression of cervical cancer is rarer in the juxtaregional (paraaortic), mediastinal and supraclavicular nodes. Clinically proven supraclavicular metastases are not a rarity. In stages IIb and IIIa with metastases in paraaortal nodes occur a 20% metastases at the neck lymph nodes. Hematogenic metastases are relatively rare and occur in the posterior phase. Distant metastases are detected in the lungs and liver. Preinvasive and microinvasive stages of cervical cancer are without symptoms. With deeper invasion of the strome, certain clinical symptoms such as prolonged menstruation, increased vaginal secretions, vaginal bleeding between the two periods, contact bleeding (after coitus), unilateral pelvic pain with spreading in hip joint (infiltration of the pelvic nerve plexus), dysuric disturbance, anemia, islet of the lower extremities. In order to diagnose the level spreading of primary lesion of cervical cancer most commonly are used the supplemental searches such as cytoscopy, rectoscopy, urography, irigography, lung and bone radiography, scintigraphy of the liver, kidney and bone, lymphography, CT (MR) of abdomen and pelvis, as well as laboratory analysis. Surgical treatment consists of transvaginal hysterectomy, transabdominal removal of the uterus (via laparotomy), bilateral adenectomy (removal of the ovaries and the fallopian tubes), upper and middle third of the vagina and lymphonodectomy of the regional lymph nodes. The most commonly used radiotherapy, intracavitary brachytherapy, manual afterloading technique and remote afterloading techniques. The synthetic derivatives of ursodeoxycholic acid and chenodeoxycholic acid such as HS-1183, HS-1199, and HS-1200 are used to treat cervical cancer. These derivatives of chenodeoxycholic acid and ursodeoxycholic acid are capable of inhibiting cell proliferation and inducing apoptosis in SiHa human cells of cervix. Platinum compounds are used as catalysts in cervical cancer therapy. Clinical use of platinum complexes for which the bile acids bind is based on the desire to achieve the death of tumor cells and the spectrum of drug activity in the treatment of cervical cancer. Bisursodeoxycholate (ethylenediamine) platinum (II) [Pt(UDC)2(en)] is characterized by important cytotoxicity against HeLa cervical carcinoma cells and this effect already being clearly detectable after 24 h.

Pathways to a cancer-free future: A protocol for modelled evaluations to maximize the future impact of interventions on cervical cancer in Australia

OBJECTIVE

Australia's HPV vaccination and HPV-based cervical screening programs are changing the landscape in cervical cancer prevention. We aim to identify areas which can make the biggest further impact on cervical cancer burden. This protocol describes the first stage of a program of work called Pathways-Cervix that aims to generate evidence from modelled evaluations of interventions across the cervical cancer spectrum.

METHODS

Based on evidence from literature reviews and guidance from a multi-disciplinary Scientific Advisory Committee (SAC), the most relevant evaluations for prevention, diagnosis and treatment were identified.

RESULTS

Priority evaluations agreed by the SAC included: increasing/decreasing and retaining vaccination uptake at the current level; vaccinating older women; increasing screening participation; methods for triaging HPV-positive women; improving the diagnosis of cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) and cancer; treating cervical abnormalities and cancer; and vaccinating women treated for CIN2/3 to prevent recurrence. Evaluations will be performed using a simulation model, Policy1-Cervix previously used to perform policy evaluations in Australia. Exploratory modelling of interventions using idealised scenarios will initially be conducted in single birth cohorts. If these have a significant impact on findings then evaluations with more realistic assumptions will be conducted. Promising strategies will be investigated further by multi-cohort simulations predicting health outcomes, resource use and cost outcomes.

CONCLUSIONS

Pathways-Cervix will assess the relative benefits of strategies and treatment options in a systematic and health economic framework, producing a list of 'best buys' for future decision-making in cervical cancer control.

The combined impact of implementing HPV immunisation and primary HPV screening in New Zealand: Transitional and long-term benefits, costs and resource utilisation implications

BACKGROUND

In response to emergent evidence, many countries are transitioning from cytology-based to HPV screening. We evaluated the impact of an upcoming transition on health outcomes and resource utilisation in New Zealand.

METHODS

An extensively validated model of HPV transmission, vaccination, natural history and cervical screening ('Policy1-Cervix') was utilised to simulate a transition from three-yearly cytology for women 20-69 years to five-yearly HPV screening with 16/18 genotyping for women 25-69 years, accounting for population growth and the impact of HPV immunisation. Cervical cancer rates, resources use (test volumes), costs, and test positivity rates from 2015 to 2035 were estimated.

FINDINGS

By 2035, the transition to HPV screening will result in declines in cervical cancer incidence and mortality rates by 32% and 25%, respectively, compared to 2018. A potentially detectable 5% increase in cervical cancer incidence due to earlier detection is predicted for the year of transition. Annual numbers of women screened will fluctuate with the five-year screening interval. Cytology volumes will reduce by over 80% but colposcopy volumes will be similar to pre-transition rates, and program costs will be reduced by 16%. A 9% HPV test positivity rate is expected in the first round of HPV screening (2019-2023), with 2.7% of women referred for colposcopy. Transitioning from cytology to primary HPV cervical screening could avert 149 cancer cases and 45 deaths by 2035.

CONCLUSION

Primary HPV screening and vaccination will reduce cervical cancer and resources use. A small transient apparent increase of invasive cancer rates due to earlier detection may be detectable at the population level, reflecting the introduction of a more sensitive screening test. These findings can be used to inform health services planning and public communications surrounding program implementation.

Role of Ancillary Techniques in Gynecologic Cytopathology Specimens

The association between high-risk genotypes of human papillomavirus (hr-HPV) and cervical cancer is well established. As hr-HPV testing is rapidly becoming a part of routine cervical cancer screening, either in conjunction with cytology or as primary testing, the management of hr-HPV-positive women has to be tailored in a way that increases the detection of cervical abnormalities while decreasing unnecessary colposcopic biopsies or other invasive procedures. In this review, we discuss the overall utility and strategies of hr-HPV testing, as well as the advantages and limitations of potential triage strategies for hr-HPV-positive women, including HPV genotyping, p16/Ki-67 dual staining, and methylation assays.

HPV Testing With 16, 18, and 45 Genotyping Stratifies Cancer Risk for Women With Normal Cytology

Objectives

To determine the BD Onclarity human papillomavirus (HPV) assay performance and risk values for cervical intraepithelial neoplasia grade 2 (CIN2) or higher and cervical intraepithelial neoplasia grade 3 (CIN3) or higher during Papanicolaou/HPV cotesting in a negative for intraepithelial lesions or malignancies (NILM) population.

Methods

In total, 22,383 of the 33,858 enrolled women were 30 years or older with NILM cytology. HPV+ and a subset of HPV– patients (3,219/33,858 combined; 9.5%) were referred to colposcopy/biopsy.

Results

Overall, 7.9% of women were Onclarity positive; HPV 16 had the highest prevalence (1.5%). Verification bias-adjusted (VBA) CIN2 or higher and CIN3 or higher prevalences were 0.9% and 0.3%, respectively. Onclarity had VBA CIN2 or higher (44.1%) and CIN3 or higher (69.5%) sensitivities, as well as CIN2 or higher (92.4%) and CIN3 or higher (92.3%) specificities—all similar to Hybrid Capture 2. HPV 16, 18, 45, and the other 11 genotypes had CIN3 or higher risks of 6.9%, 2.6%, 1.1%, and 2.2%, respectively.

Conclusions

Onclarity is clinically validated for cotesting in NILM women. Genotyping actionably stratifies women at greater CIN3 or higher risk.

Early detection and prevention

The rapidly increasing incidence and mortality of cancer calls for a focused effort to increase the effect of cancer‐prevention efforts. In the area of early detection, there are major differences in the preventive impact of implemented screening policies, even when solid, evidence‐based international recommendations are issued. Studies are needed to determine why evidence‐based interventions are not used and to investigate why effects are less than predicted by solid research on the subject. Currently, population‐based screening is recommended only for three forms of cancer (cervical, breast and colorectal cancer) but, given the increasing cancer burden, efforts are required to facilitate the discovery of new biomarkers for screening, as well as the identification of barriers to implementation of new cancer screening discoveries. The creation of a network of excellence in research on Cancer Prevention (Cancer Prevention Europe) is likely to significantly contribute to progress in these areas. In the present review, some possible strategies to ensure progress are discussed, with specific examples from the cervical cancer screening area.

Evaluation of the self-sampling for cervical cancer screening in Bolivia

Background

Incidence and mortality rates of cervical cancer in Bolivia are the highest in Latin America. Vaginal cell self-sampling can improve screening coverage. Information on common reasons for low screening coverage and preferences for future screening are essential to reduce cervical cancer incidence. We aimed to evaluate the knowledge about human papillomavirus (HPV) and cervical cancer of Bolivian women from urban, peri-urban and rural areas of Cochabamba and to determine their degree of acceptability and confidence towards vaginal HPV self-sampling. In addition, we assessed the impact of self-sampling on cervical cancer screening coverage in a selected peri-urban area.

Methods

We gathered information from women living in urban, peri-urban and rural areas of Cochabamba province in Bolivia using two different structured questionnaires. In Survey1, we collected information from 222 women about their knowledge on HPV and cervical cancer. In Survey 2, the acceptance and confidence towards vaginal HPV self-sampling compared to the physician-sampling was assessed in 221 women. A non-probabilistic stratified sampling by areas was carried out for the two questionnaires. In the third phase of the study, we determined the impact of HPV self-sampling collection on screening coverage in a peri-urban area of Cochabamba.

Results

Bolivian women knew little or nothing about cervical cancer and HPV infection in all areas. They all found self-sampling collection easier to perform (86.9 to 93.2%) and more comfortable (79.4 to 83.3%) compared to physician sampling. Sampling accuracy to detect cervical cancer was probably higher in their point of view when it was taken by physician (35.1 to 63.5%). However in rural areas women preferred self-sampling. Accordingly, the campaign of vaginal HPV self-sampling in this peri-urban area increased screening coverage, reaching in three months the annual rate average.

Conclusions

The knowledge about cervical cancer and HPV infection is poor in Bolivia. Despite greater acceptance of the vaginal HPV self-sampling in all areas, women kept greater confidence in the screening performed by the gynecologist although HPV self-sampling improved coverage rate.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (10.1186/s12889-019-6401-5) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Longitudinal Clinical Performance of the RNA-Based Aptima Human Papillomavirus (AHPV) Assay in Comparison to the DNA-Based Hybrid Capture 2 HPV Test in Two Consecutive Screening Rounds with a 6-Year Interval in Germany

Longitudinal data on the E6/E7 mRNA-based Aptima human papillomavirus (AHPV) assay exceeding three years in comparison to the gold standard Digene Hybrid Capture 2 (HC2) test are not available. We previously reported the cross-sectional data of the German AHPV Screening Trial (GAST) in which 10,040 women were recruited and tested by liquid-based cytology, the HC2 assay, and the AHPV assay. Four hundred eleven test-positive women were followed for up to six years. In addition, 3,295 triple-negative women were screened after a median time of six years. Overall, 28 high-grade cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN3) cases were detected. The absolute risk of developing high-risk HPV-positive CIN3+ over six years among those women that tested negative at baseline was 2.2 (95% confidence interval [95% CI], 1.0 to 4.9) and 3.1 (95% CI, 1.7 to 5.7) per 1,000 women screened by the HC2 and the AHPV tests; the additional risk for those with AHPV-negative compared with HC2-negative results was 0.9 (95% CI, -0.2 to 2.1) per 1,000. In comparison, the absolute risk following a negative LBC test was 9.3 (95% CI, 2.9 to 30.2). The relative sensitivity of AHPV compared to HC2 was 91.5% for CIN3+, and the negative predictive values were 99.8% (95% CI, 99.5 to 99.9%) for HC2 and 99.7% (95% CI, 99.4 to 99.8%) for AHPV. Our data show that the longitudinal performance of the AHPV test over six years is comparable to the performance of the HC2 test and that the absolute risk of CIN3+ over six years following a negative AHPV result in a screening population is low. (This study is registered at ClinicalTrials.gov under registration number NCT02634190.).

Performance of clinical screening algorithms comprising point-of-care HPV-DNA testing using self-collected vaginal specimens, and visual inspection of the cervix with acetic acid, for the detection of underlying high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions in Papua New Guinea

The performance of different clinical screening algorithms comprising point-of-care HPV-DNA testing using self-collected vaginal (‘V’) specimens, and visual inspection of the cervix with acetic acid (VIA) was evaluated in Papua New Guinea.

Women aged 30–59 years provided V specimens that were tested at point-of-care using the Xpert HPV Test (Cepheid, Sunnyvale, CA). A clinician-collected cervical (‘C’) specimen was then collected for point-of-care Xpert testing, and liquid-based cytology (LBC). Following this, VIA examination was conducted, blind to HPV test results, and ablative cervical cryotherapy provided if indicated. Detection of high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (HSIL) by LBC was the reference standard used to evaluate clinical screening algorithms.

Of 1005 women, 36 had HSIL+. Xpert HPV Test performance using V specimens (sensitivity 91.7%, specificity 87.0%, PPV 34.0%, NPV 99.3%) was superior to VIA examination alone (51.5%, 81.4%, 17.5%, 95.6% respectively) in predicting underlying HSIL+. A screening algorithm comprising V specimen HPV testing followed by VIA examination had low sensitivity (45.5%) but comparable specificity, PPV and NPV to HPV testing alone (96.3%, 45.5%, 96.3% respectively).

A ‘test-and-treat’ screening algorithm based on point-of-care HPV testing of V specimens had superior performance compared with either VIA examination alone, or a combined screening algorithm comprising HPV testing plus VIA.

DNA methylation markers as a triage test for identification of cervical lesions in a high risk human papillomavirus positive screening cohort

Objective triage strategies are required to prevent unnecessary referrals for colposcopy in population‐based screening programs using primary high‐risk human papillomavirus (hrHPV) testing. We have identified several DNA methylation markers with high sensitivity and specificity for detection of high‐grade cervical intraepithelial neoplasia or worse (CIN2+) in women referred for colposcopy. Our study assessed diagnostic potential of these methylation markers in a hrHPV‐positive screening cohort. All six markers (JAM3, EPB41L3, C13orf18, ANKRD18CP, ZSCAN1 and SOX1) showed similar association across histology in the hrHPV‐positive cohort when compared to the Dutch cohort (each p > 0.15). Sensitivity for CIN2+ was higher using methylation panel C13orf18/EPB41L3/JAM3 compared to the other 2 panels (80% vs. 60% (ANKRD18CP/C13orf18/JAM3) and 63% (SOX1/ZSCAN1), p = 0.01). For CIN3+ all three methylation panels showed comparable sensitivity ranging from 68% (13/19) to 95% (18/19). Specificity of SOX1/ZSCAN1 panel (84%, 167/200) was considerably higher compared to ANKRD18CP/C13orf18/JAM3 (68%, 136/200, p = 2 × 10⁻⁵) and C13orf18/EPB41L3/JAM3 (66%, 132/200, p = 2 × 10⁻⁷). High negative predictive value (NPV) (91–95% and 96–99%) was observed for CIN2+ and CIN3+, for all three methylation panels, while positive predictive value (PPV) varied from 25 to 40% for CIN2+ and 15–27% for CIN3+. Interestingly, 118/235 samples were negative for all six markers (including 106 controls (89.8%), 6 CIN1 (5.1%), 5 CIN2 (4.2%) and 1 CIN3 (0.8%)). Methylation results from both independent cohorts were comparable as well as high sensitivity for detection of cervical cancer and its high‐grade precursors in hrHPV‐positive population. Our study therefore validates these methylation marker panels as triage test either in hrHPV‐based or abnormal cytology‐based screening programs.

What's new?

In cervical cancer screening, HPV testing provides greater sensitivity than cytology, but its lower specificity leads to some unnecessary treatment referrals. DNA methylation assays could potentially provide better specificity for identifying CIN2+ in women carrying high risk HPV. These authors investigated six previously identified CIN2+ methylation markers. They tested three different combinations of markers, and found high levels of sensitivity and specificity, making these markers potentially useful as part of a population‐based screening program.

Anticipating the Impact of Human Papillomavirus Vaccination on US Cervical Cancer Prevention Strategies

Cervical cancer prevention guidelines are benchmarked to risk of cervical precancer. In younger age cohorts, vaccination against high-risk types of human papillomavirus (HPV) has reduced HPV 16/18 prevalence and cervical intraepithelial neoplasia. Lower prevalence of precancer will impair the sensitivity of cytology and colposcopy, but negative predictive value will rise. Training and skills maintenance will become more difficult as abnormalities become less common. Primary screening with HPV assays will become more attractive but will require HPV genotyping as most positive HPV tests will reflect non-16/18 infections with lower oncogenicity. Screening will begin later and will occur at longer intervals. Colposcopy and treatment thresholds will become more stringent. Historical data sets will become inappropriate for guidelines development. As women immunized using nonavalent vaccine reach screening age, these trends will become still more pronounced.

HPV-mRNA and HPV-DNA detection in samples taken up to seven years before severe dysplasia of cervix uteri

Randomized clinical trials using human papillomavirus (HPV) DNA testing have found increased protection against cervical cancer and HPV-based screening is globally recommended for women ≥30 years of age. HPV-mRNA is a promising alternative target for cervical screening tests, but assessing equivalence requires longitudinal evaluation over at least the length of a screening interval. Our aim is to analyze the longitudinal sensitivity of HPV-mRNA and HPV-DNA in cervical samples taken up to 7 years before severe cervical intraepithelial neoplasia or worse (CIN3+). From a population-based cohort of 95,023 women in Sweden, cervical samples were frozen at -80°C between May 2007 and January 2012. Registry linkages identified that 1,204 of these women had CIN3+ 4 months to 7 years after enrolment. Baseline samples were analyzed for HPV-mRNA (Aptima, Hologic) and for HPV-DNA (Cobas 4800, Roche) and results from both tests obtained for 1,172 women. For both women <30 and ≥ 30 years, HPV-mRNA had similar sensitivity for CIN3+ as HPV-DNA (p = 0.0217 and p = 0.0123 in noninferiority testing for at least 90% relative sensitivity, respectively). Among women ≥30 years, the longitudinal sensitivities for CIN3+ occurring 5-7 years later were comparable [76.3% (95% CI: 65.8%-84.3%) and 82.5% (95% CI: 72.6%-89.4%)] as were the longitudinal negative predictive values for absence of CIN3+ [99.97% (95% CI: 99.95-99.98) and 99.98% (95% CI: 99.96-99.99)], for the HPV-mRNA and HPV-DNA test. In conclusion, HPV-mRNA testing has similar longitudinal sensitivity as HPV-DNA, implying that HPV-mRNA testing can safely be used for cervical screening.

Cervical cancer screening using the Cervista high-risk human papillomavirus test: opportunistic screening of a hospital-based population in Fujian province, China

Objectives

The Cervista^® high-risk human papillomavirus (HR-HPV) test was evaluated as a primary screening method for cervical cancer in women aged ≥21 years and was compared with different screening and triage combinations.

Materials and methods

A nested case–control study within the Fujian provincial Cervical Lesion Screening Cohorts was used to evaluate the Cervista test as the primary cervical screening method in a hospital-based population. Strategy 1 primarily screened using a cytology screen with HR-HPV testing used for triage. Strategy 2 primarily screened using cytology and HR-HPV co-testing. Strategy 3 primarily screened using HR-HPV testing and triaged HPV-positive women based on cytology. Strategy 4 primarily screened using HR-HPV testing and referred A9 pool HPV-positive women to colposcopy directly, whereas non-A9 HPV-positive women were triaged using cytology.

Results

There were 10,183 women included in this study; 16.49% (1677/10,183) were HR-HPV-positive, 9.52% had abnormal cytology, and 9907 women were normal during followup. A total of 276 women were diagnosed with cervical intraepithelial neoplasia 2 or worse (CIN2+), 197 with CIN3 or worse (CIN3+), and 70 with cervical cancer. Moreover, 10.15% (20/197) women who were CIN3+ were identified as cytology-negative, while 8.63% (17/197) were HR-HPV negative (P>0.05). The cumulative risk rate for HPV–/cytology– was 0.836 (95% CI, 0.424–1.648) in CIN3+ cases. Strategy 4 yielded the highest sensitivity for CIN2+ or CIN3+ and the lowest positive predictive value for CIN2+ or CIN3+ among the four screening strategies.

Conclusion

The Cervista HR-HPV test can provide a reliable and sensitive clinical reference for the cervical cancer primary screen.

Implementation of Multicolor Melt Curve Analysis for High-Risk Human Papilloma Virus Detection in Low- and Middle-Income Countries: A Pilot Study for Expanded Cervical Cancer Screening in Honduras

PURPOSE

Cervical cancer is a leading cause of cancer-related mortality in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) and screening in LMICs is extremely limited. We aimed to implement on-site high-risk human papillomavirus (hrHPV) DNA testing in cohorts of women from an urban factory and from a rural village.

METHODS

A total of 802 women were recruited for this study in partnership with La Liga Contra el Cancer through the establishment of women's health resource fairs at two locations in Honduras: a textile factory (n = 401) in the city of San Pedro Sula and the rural village of El Rosario (n = 401) in Yoro. Participants received a routine cervical examination during which three sterile cytobrushes were used to collect cervical samples for testing. hrHPV genotyping was performed using a hrHPV genotyping assay and a real-time polymerase chain reaction instrument.

RESULTS

hrHPV status across all participants at both sites was 13% hrHPV positive and 67% hrHPV negative. When hrHPV status was compared across all three testing sites, hrHPV-positive rates were approximately equal among the factory (13%), village (12%), and confirmatory testing at Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center (Lebanon, NH; 14%). hrHPV genotype was compared across sites, with HPV16 showing the highest infection rate (15%), followed by HPV59 (12%), and HPV68 (11%). There was a low prevalence of HPV18 observed in both populations compared with the hrHPV-positive population in the United States.

CONCLUSION

In collaboration with oncologists and pathologists from La Liga Contra el Cancer, we were able to provide a continuum of care once health-fair testing was performed. We established a method and implementation plan for hrHPV testing that is sustainable in LMICs.

Protocol for the study of cervical cancer screening technologies in HIV-infected women living in Rwanda

INTRODUCTION

The optimal method(s) for screening HIV-infected women, especially for those living in sub-Saharan Africa, for cervical precancer and early cancer has yet to be established.

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

A convenience sample of >5000 Rwandan women, ages 30-54 years and living with HIV infection, is being consented and enroled into a cross-sectional study of cervical cancer screening strategies. Participants are completing an administered short risk factor questionnaire and being screened for high-risk human papillomavirus (hrHPV) using the Xpert HPV assay (Cepheid, Sunnyvale, California, USA), unaided visual inspection after acetic acid (VIA) and aided VIA using the Enhanced Visual Assessment (EVA) system (Mobile ODT, Tel Aviv, Israel). Women positive for hrHPV and/or by unaided VIA undergo colposcopy, which includes the collection of two cervical specimens prior to undergoing a four-quadrant microbiopsy protocol. The colposcopy-collected specimens are being tested by dual immunocytochemical staining for p16INK4a and Ki-67 (CINtec PLUS Cytology, Ventana, Tucson, Arizona, USA) and for E6 or E7 oncoprotein for 8 hrHPV genotypes (HPV16, 18, 31, 33, 35, 45, 52 and 58) using the next-generation AV Avantage hrHPV E6/E7 test (Arbor Vita Corporation, Freemont, California, USA). Women with a local pathology diagnosis of cervical intraepithelial neoplasia grade 2 (CIN2) or more severe (CIN2+) or pathology review diagnosis of CIN grade three or more severe (CIN3+) will receive treatment. Clinical performance and cost-effectiveness (eg, sensitivity, specificity and predictive values) of different screening strategies and algorithms will be evaluated.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

The protocol was approved by local and institutional review boards for human subjects research. At the completion of the study, results will be disseminated to the scientific community through peer-reviewed publication and to the Rwandan stakeholders through an external advisory panel.

Good concordance of HPV detection between cervico-vaginal self-samples and general practitioner-collected samples using the Cobas 4800 HPV DNA test

Background

Studies comparing self-samples and clinician-collected samples for high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV) detection using clinically validated PCR-based HPV DNA assays are limited. We measured the concordance of HPV detection between home-based self-sampling and general practitioner (GP) sampling using the Cobas 4800 HPV DNA test and studied women’s accept of home-based self-sampling.

Methods

Paired GP-collected samples and cervico-vaginal self-samples were obtained from 213 women aged 30–59 years diagnosed with ASC-US within the cervical cancer screening program. After undergoing cervical cytology at their GP, the women collected a self-sample with the Evalyn Brush at home and completed a questionnaire. Both samples were HPV-tested using the Cobas 4800 test. Histology results were available for those who tested HPV positive in GP-collected samples.

Results

We observed good concordance for HPV detection between self-samples and GP-collected samples (κ: 0.70, 95% CI: 0.58–0.81). No underlying CIN2+ cases were missed by self-sampling. Women evaluated that self-sampling was easy (97.2%, 95% CI: 93.9–98.9%) and comfortable (94.8%, 95% CI: 90.9–97.4%).

Conclusions

Home-based self-sampling using the Evalyn Brush and the Cobas 4800 test is an applicable and reliable alternative to GP-sampling.

The use of p16/Ki-67 dual staining technology on cervical cytology of patients undergoing a LLETZ procedure

OBJECTIVES

The main objective of this prospective observational study was to investigate the diagnostic performance of the p16/Ki-67 dual stain technique (DST) for detecting CIN 2+ in a LLETZ referral setting. Test performances were compared with HR-HPV testing and Pap cytology.

METHODS

All patients referred for a LLETZ procedure were candidates for participation in this trial. A total of 110 patients were enrolled between October 2016 and March 2017. From each participant, a cervical cytology sample was obtained before the onset of the LLETZ procedure. On each sample, the dual stain technique (Roche CINtec PLUS ® test), Pap cytology and an HPV DNA assay (identifying 17 different HPV types) were performed.

RESULTS

The overall disease prevalence of CIN 2+ was 56%. The mean age was 41 years, with 38% of patients being younger than 35 years. The overall sensitivity and specificity of the dual stain technique for detecting CIN 2+ was 94% (95% CI: 84.30-98.21%) and 58% (95% CI: 43.21-72.93%) respectively with a PPV of 74% (95% CI: 67.34-80.31%) and a NPV of 88% (95% CI: 72.48-94.90%). HR-HPV testing results in a similar sensitivity of 92% (95% CI: 82.17-97.33%) but considerable lower specificity of 21% (95% CI: 11.17-33.35%) compared to the dual stain technique. At an ASCUS or worse threshold, Pap cytology had the lowest sensitivity of 89% (95% CI 78.11-95.34%) compared to dual staining and HR-HPV testing. Specificity was better (48% with 95% CI of 33.29-62.81%) than that of HR-HPV testing but not as good as the DST.

CONCLUSION

p16/Ki-67 dual staining provides high sensitivity and improved specificity compared to HR-HPV testing and Pap cytology for detecting CIN 2+, making it an interesting tool for identifying relevant disease in patients referred for a LLETZ procedure.

Effect of Screening With Primary Cervical HPV Testing vs Cytology Testing on High-grade Cervical Intraepithelial Neoplasia at 48 Months: The HPV FOCAL Randomized Clinical Trial

IMPORTANCE

There is limited information about the relative effectiveness of cervical cancer screening with primary human papillomavirus (HPV) testing alone compared with cytology in North American populations.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate histologically confirmed cumulative incident cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) grade 3 or worse (CIN3+) detected up to and including 48 months by primary HPV testing alone (intervention) or liquid-based cytology (control).

DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS

Randomized clinical trial conducted in an organized Cervical Cancer Screening Program in Canada. Participants were recruited through 224 collaborating clinicians from January 2008 to May 2012, with follow-up through December 2016. Women aged 25 to 65 years with no history of CIN2+ in the past 5 years, no history of invasive cervical cancer, or no history of hysterectomy; who have not received a Papanicolaou test within the past 12 months; and who were not receiving immunosuppressive therapy were eligible.

INTERVENTIONS

A total of 19 009 women were randomized to the intervention (n = 9552) and control (n = 9457) groups. Women in the intervention group received HPV testing; those whose results were negative returned at 48 months. Women in the control group received liquid-based cytology (LBC) testing; those whose results were negative returned at 24 months for LBC. Women in the control group who were negative at 24 months returned at 48 months. At 48-month exit, both groups received HPV and LBC co-testing.

MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES

The primary outcome was the cumulative incidence of CIN3+ 48 months following randomization. The cumulative incidence of CIN2+ was a secondary outcome.

RESULTS

Among 19 009 women who were randomized (mean age, 45 years [10th-90th percentile, 30-59]), 16 374 (8296 [86.9%] in the intervention group and 8078 [85.4%] in the control group) completed the study. At 48 months, significantly fewer CIN3+ and CIN2+ were detected in the intervention vs control group. The CIN3+ incidence rate was 2.3/1000 (95% CI, 1.5-3.5) in the intervention group and 5.5/1000 (95% CI, 4.2-7.2) in the control group. The CIN3+ risk ratio was 0.42 (95% CI, 0.25-0.69). The CIN2+ incidence rate at 48 months was 5.0/1000 (95% CI, 3.8-6.7) in the intervention group and 10.6/1000 (95% CI, 8.7-12.9) in the control group. The CIN2+ risk ratio was 0.47 (95% CI, 0.34-0.67). Baseline HPV-negative women had a significantly lower cumulative incidence of CIN3+ at 48 months than cytology-negative women (CIN3+ incidence rate, 1.4/1000 [95% CI, 0.8-2.4]; CIN3+ risk ratio, 0.25 [95% CI, 0.13-0.48]).

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE

Among women undergoing cervical cancer screening, the use of primary HPV testing compared with cytology testing resulted in a significantly lower likelihood of CIN3+ at 48 months. Further research is needed to understand long-term clinical outcomes as well as cost-effectiveness.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

isrctn.org Identifier: ISRCTN79347302.

Challenges in risk estimation using routinely collected clinical data: The example of estimating cervical cancer risks from electronic health-records

Electronic health-records (EHR) are increasingly used by epidemiologists studying disease following surveillance testing to provide evidence for screening intervals and referral guidelines. Although cost-effective, undiagnosed prevalent disease and interval censoring (in which asymptomatic disease is only observed at the time of testing) raise substantial analytic issues when estimating risk that cannot be addressed using Kaplan-Meier methods. Based on our experience analysing EHR from cervical cancer screening, we previously proposed the logistic-Weibull model to address these issues. Here we demonstrate how the choice of statistical method can impact risk estimates. We use observed data on 41,067 women in the cervical cancer screening program at Kaiser Permanente Northern California, 2003-2013, as well as simulations to evaluate the ability of different methods (Kaplan-Meier, Turnbull, Weibull and logistic-Weibull) to accurately estimate risk within a screening program. Cumulative risk estimates from the statistical methods varied considerably, with the largest differences occurring for prevalent disease risk when baseline disease ascertainment was random but incomplete. Kaplan-Meier underestimated risk at earlier times and overestimated risk at later times in the presence of interval censoring or undiagnosed prevalent disease. Turnbull performed well, though was inefficient and not smooth. The logistic-Weibull model performed well, except when event times didn't follow a Weibull distribution. We have demonstrated that methods for right-censored data, such as Kaplan-Meier, result in biased estimates of disease risks when applied to interval-censored data, such as screening programs using EHR data. The logistic-Weibull model is attractive, but the model fit must be checked against Turnbull non-parametric risk estimates.

Danish method study on cervical screening in women offered HPV vaccination as girls (Trial23): a study protocol

INTRODUCTION

The first birth cohorts of women offered human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination as girls are now entering cervical screening. However, there is no international consensus on how to screen HPV vaccinated women. These women are better protected against cervical cancer and could therefore be offered less intensive screening. Primary HPV testing is more sensitive than cytology, allowing for a longer screening interval. The aim of Trial23 is to investigate if primary HPV testing with cytology triage of HPV positive samples is a reasonable screening scheme for women offered HPV vaccination as girls.

METHODS

Trial23 is a method study embedded in the existing cervical screening programme in four out of five Danish regions. Without affecting the screening programme, women born in 1994 are randomised to present screening with liquid-based cytology every third year (present programme arm) or present screening plus an HPV test (HPV arm). The study started 1 February 2017 and will run over three screening rounds corresponding to 7-8 years.

ANALYSES

The primary endpoint is cervical intraepithelial neoplasia grade 3 or above. The trial is undertaken as a non-inferiority study including intention-to-treat and per-protocol analyses. The potential effect of primary HPV screening with a 6-year interval will be calculated from the observed data.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

The study protocol has been submitted to the ethical committee and deemed a method study. All women are screened according to routine guidelines. The study will contribute new evidence on the future screening of HPV vaccinated birth cohorts of women. All results will be published in open-access journal.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

NCT03049553; Pre-results.

Adherence patterns to extended cervical screening intervals in women undergoing human papillomavirus (HPV) and cytology cotesting

Although guidelines have recommended extended interval cervical screening using concurrent human papillomavirus (HPV) and cytology ("cotesting") for over a decade, little is known about its adoption into routine care. Using longitudinal medical record data (2003-2015) from Kaiser Permanente Northern California (KPNC), which adopted triennial cotesting in 2003, we examined adherence to extended interval screening. We analyzed predictors of screening intervals among 491,588 women undergoing routine screening, categorizing interval length into early (<2.5years), adherent (2.5<3.5years), or late (3.5<6.0years). We also examined repeated early screening in a subgroup of 50,691 women. Predictors examined included: cohort year (defined by baseline cotest, 2003-2009), race/ethnicity, and baseline age. Compared to the 2003 cohort, women in the 2009 cohort were significantly less likely to screen early (aOR=0.22, 95% CI=0.21, 0.23) or late (aOR=0.47, 95% CI=0.45, 0.49). African American (AA) and Hispanic women were less adherent overall than Non-Hispanic White women, with increased early [(AA: aOR=1.21, 95%CI=1.17, 1.25) (Hispanic: aOR=1.08, 95%CI=1.06, 1.11)] and late screening [(AA: aOR=1.23, 95%CI=1.19, 1.27) (Hispanic: aOR=1.06, 95%CI=1.03, 1.08)]. Asian women were slightly more likely to screen early (aOR=1.03, 95%CI=1.01, 1.05), and less likely to screen late (aOR=0.92, 95% CI=0.90, 0.94). Women aged 60-64years were most likely to screen early for two consecutive intervals (aOR=2.09, 95%CI=1.91, 2.29). Our study found that widespread and rapid adoption of extended interval cervical cancer screening is possible, at least in this managed care setting. Further research examining multilevel drivers promoting or restricting extended interval screening across diverse healthcare settings is needed.

Test performance and acceptability of self- versus provider-collected swabs for high-risk HPV DNA testing in female-to-male trans masculine patients

Background

High-risk human papillomavirus (hrHPV) causes virtually all cervical cancers. Trans masculine (TM) people (those assigned female at birth who identify with a gender other than female) have low uptake of conventional cervical cancer screening. Self-collected hrHPV DNA testing has high levels of acceptability among cisgender (non-transgender) females and may support increased cervical cancer screening uptake in TM individuals.

Objective

To assess the test performance and acceptability of self-collected vaginal specimens in comparison to provider-collected cervical swabs for hrHPV DNA detection in TM individuals ages 21–64 years.

Methods

Between March 2015-September 2016, 150 TM participants with a cervix (mean age = 27.5 years; SD = 5.7) completed a one-time study visit comprised of a self-report survey, self-collected vaginal HPV DNA swab, clinician-administered cervical HPV swab, and brief interview on acceptability of clinical procedures. Participants were randomized to complete either self- or provider-collection first to minimize ordering effects. Self- and provider-collected samples were tested for 13 hrHPV DNA types using a DNA Hybridization Assay. The primary outcome variable was the concordance (kappa statistic) and performance (sensitivity, specificity) of self-collected vaginal HPV DNA specimens versus provider-collected cervical HPV swabs as the gold standard.

Results

Of the 131 participants completing both the self- and provider-collected HPV tests, 21 cases of hrHPV were detected by the provider cervical swab (gold standard; 16.0% hrHPV prevalence); 15 of these cases were accurately detected by the self-collected vaginal swab (71.4% concordance) (Kappa = 0.75, 95% Confidence Interval [CI]: 0.59, 0.92; p<0.001). Compared to the provider-collected cervical hrHPV DNA sample (gold standard), the self-collected vaginal hrHPV DNA test demonstrated a sensitivity of 71.4% (95% CI: 0.52, 0.91; p = 0.0495) and specificity of 98.2% (95% CI: 0.96, 1.00; p<0.0001). Over 90% of participants endorsed a preference for the self-collected vaginal swab over provider-collected cervical swab.

Conclusion

Self-collected vaginal swabs are highly acceptable to TM as a means to test for hrHPV DNA. Test performance of this self-collection method for hrHPV detection in TM is consistent with previous studies in cisgender females. Self-collected vaginal swab testing for hrHPV DNA represents a reasonable and patient-centered strategy for primary cervical cancer screening in TM patients unwilling to undergo provider collection of specimens via speculum exam.

Influence of Prior Knowledge of Human Papillomavirus Status on the Performance of Cytology Screening

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to evaluate the influence of prior knowledge of human papillomavirus (HPV) status in cervical cytopathology readings.

METHODS

Participants comprised 2,376 women who underwent parallel cytology and HPV-DNA testing. Smears were read twice by the same team, first with previous knowledge of HPV-DNA status.

RESULTS

Overall, 239 (10.2%) smears had their cytology classification altered by the HPV-informed review. Cytology readings with prior knowledge of the HPV status revealed 10.5% of abnormal smears (atypical squamous cells of undetermined significance or higher), while without prior knowledge, this rate dropped to 7.6%. When HPV status was informed, a significant increase in all categories of altered smears was observed. Cytology with prior knowledge of HPV status detected more cervical intraepithelial neoplasia grade 2 or higher (CIN 2+) compared with blinded: 86.7% vs 60.0%.

CONCLUSIONS

Our data indicate that cytology interpreted with prior knowledge of the HPV status provides higher sensitivity for CIN 2+ lesions while marginally reducing the overall specificity compared with HPV status blinded cytology.

Innovative approaches to cervical cancer screening in low- and middle-income countries

The estimated cervical cancer burden is over ten-fold greater in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) than in high-income countries. This health gap is thought to be primarily due to limited access to effective screening and treatment programs for cervical pre-cancer and cancer in such settings. The World Health Organization advocates a policy of 'screen and treat' approach to cervical screening in LMICs and subsequently visual inspection of the cervix with acetic acid (VIA) or Lugo's iodine (VILI), followed by ablative cervical cryotherapy if indicated, and this policy has been implemented in many high-burden settings. The performance of VIA/VILI as a primary screening tool for the detection of cervical pre-cancer and cancer has, however, been inconsistent. Recently, many high-income countries have integrated HPV-DNA testing into their cervical cancer screening programs. The comparatively high cost and resource requirements of HPV-based screening have to date prevented many LMICs from doing the same. A significant development has been the entrance of innovative, easy-to-use and highly accurate HPV tests that can be provided at point of care; these could enable LMICs to implement 'test and treat' approaches for cervical cancer screening.

Cervical screening: A new way forward (tests of risk and tests of disease)

Cervical screening has been a highly successful health promotion initiative. The way cervical screening is delivered is about to change dramatically, with the introduction of 'tests of risk' and 'tests of disease' based on primary HPV testing and the use of cell host response biomarkers. This article addresses the fundamental basis of this change in clinical practice and offers insights into how the future of cervical screening will look.

Self-collection for under-screened women in a National Cervical Screening Program: pilot study

BACKGROUND

Commencing 1 December 2017, Australia introduced human papillomavirus (hpv)-based cervical screening. As part of this Australian renewed National Cervical Screening Program (ncsp) women who are either never- or under-screened and who refuse a practitioner collected sample will be able to collect their own sample for cervical screening. The aim of this study is to examine the quantitative results of a pilot study into the acceptability of the self-collection alternative pathway.

METHODS

Eligible participants were offered the opportunity to collect their own sample. Those who agreed were given a flocked swab and an instruction sheet and took their own sample in an area of the health care clinic that afforded them adequate privacy. These samples were then given to clinic staff who returned them to Victorian Cytology Service (vcs) Pathology for hpv nucleic acid testing.

RESULTS

Of 98 eligible women, seventy-nine undertook self-collection for hpv-based cervical screening. Seventy-seven produced valid results, 14 were positive for oncogenic hpv, with 10 undertaking follow-up. Three women were found to have cervical squamous abnormalities with two of those being high-grade intraepithelial squamous lesions.

CONCLUSION

The pilot study for self-collection for cervical screening produced quantitative data that were similar to that already reported in the literature, but had a much higher rate of acceptance compared with self-collection programs based in the home.

Secondary prevention of cervical cancer

Cervical cancer affects women in their reproductive ages. Screening is an important secondary prevention strategy. The long process of carcinogenic transformation from human papillomavirus (HPV) infection to invasive cancer provides ample opportunities to detect the disease at a stage when treatment is highly effective. Suitable screening tests are cytology, visual inspection after acetic acid application and HPV detection tests. Evidence of effectiveness of the tests to reduce cervical cancer mortality and the cost-effectiveness of screening programs have been demonstrated. Cervical intraepithelial neoplasia grade 2 and grade 3 are the high-grade cervical cancer precursors and need to be treated. Treatment is safe and effective with ablative or excisional techniques. The World Health Organization recommends screening women at least once in a lifetime between 30 and 49 years of age and ensuring effective treatment of the detected abnormalities. Combination of HPV vaccination and population-based screening will be instrumental in eliminating cervical cancer.

Cervical Cancer Screening With Human Papillomavirus DNA and Cytology in Japan

Objective

The aim of this study was to determine the value of human papillomavirus (HPV) testing for primary cervical cancer screening in Japan.

Methods

In total, 5065 women who underwent primary screening with cytology and HPV between January 2005 and December 2006 were enrolled. In the baseline phase, these women were stratified by age, and the rates of HPV-positive and abnormal cytology were compared between women younger than and older than 30 years. In the follow-up phase, women aged 20 to 69 years and cytology negative for intraepithelial lesions or malignancy at baseline were followed up until December 2011 (n = 2383). Progression to grade 2/3 cervical intraepithelial neoplasia or worse (CIN2+/CIN3+) was compared between the HPV-positive and HPV-negative groups.

Results

In the baseline phase, HPV-positive rates were significantly higher in women younger than 30 years at 20.7% (95% confidence interval [CI], 18.4–22.9; 255/1234) compared with women 30 years or older at 7.2% (95% CI, 6.4%–8.0%; 275/3831; P < 0.001). However, there was no statistical difference for high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion or worse rates between them, at 2.7% (95% CI, 1.8%–3.6%; 33/1234) and 2.4% (95% CI, 1.9%–2.9%; 91/3831), respectively, P = 0.55. In the follow-up phase, the rate of progression to CIN2+/CIN3+ was significantly higher in the HPV-positive group than in the HPV-negative group (P < 0.001). Moreover, relative risk of progression to CIN2+ was 15.9 times higher in the HPV-positive group, and that of progression to CIN3+ was 16.1 times higher in the HPV-positive group.

Conclusions

Human papillomavirus testing is a useful test for predicting progression to CIN and is recommended as a primary screening tool. However, screening with cytology alone is still appropriate for younger women, younger than 30 years, because HPV testing yields more false-positive results in younger women.

Protocol for Compass: a randomised controlled trial of primary HPV testing versus cytology screening for cervical cancer in HPV-unvaccinated and vaccinated women aged 25-69 years living in Australia

INTRODUCTION

Australia's National Cervical Screening Program (NCSP) currently recommends 2-year cytology in women aged 18-69 years. Following a review of the NCSP prompted by the implementation of human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination, the programme will transition in 2017 to 5-year primary HPV screening with partial genotyping for HPV16/18 in women aged 25-74 years. Compass is a sentinel experience for the renewed NCSP and the first prospectively randomised trial of primary HPV screening compared with cytology to be conducted in a population with high uptake of HPV vaccination. This protocol describes the main Compass trial, which commenced after a pilot study of ~5000 women completed recruitment.

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

Women aged 25-69 years will be randomised at a 1:2 allocation to (1) 2.5-year image-read, liquid-based cytology (LBC) screening with HPV triage of low-grade smears (active control Arm A) or (2) 5-year HPV screening with partial genotyping and referral of HPV16/18-positive women to colposcopy (intervention Arm B). Women in Arm B positive for other oncogenic HPV (not 16/18) will undergo secondary randomisation at a 1:1 allocation to either LBC or dual-stained (p16^INK4a and Ki-67) cytology testing (dual-stained cytology). The primary outcome is cumulative CIN3+ (CIN3, adenocarcinoma in situ and invasive cervical cancer) following a 5-year HPV exit testing round in both arms, in women randomised to the HPV arm versus women randomised to the LBC arm, based on an intention-to-treat analysis. The primary outcome will first be tested for non-inferiority and if declared, the primary outcome will be tested for superiority. A total of 36 300 women in birth cohorts not offered vaccination and 84 700 women in cohorts offered vaccination will be recruited, bringing the final sample size to 121 000. The trial is powered for the secondary outcome of cumulative CIN3+ in screen-negative women, adjusted for censoring after CIN2+ treatment and hysterectomy.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

Approved by the Bellberry Ethics Committee (2014-11-592). Findings will be reported in peer-reviewed journals and presented at scientific meetings.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

NCT02328872; Pre-results.

Evaluation of p16/Ki-67 dual staining in detection of cervical precancer and cancers: a multicenter study in China

Purpose

To analyze the clinical performance of p16/Ki-67 dual-stained cytology identifying high-grade cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN2+) in Chinese women.

Methods

1079 women attending ongoing cervical cancer screening and 211 “enriched” women aged ≥30yrs with biopsy-confirmed CIN2+ from five Chinese hospitals were enrolled during year 2014-2015. Cervical specimens were collected for high-risk human papillomavirus (HR-HPV) DNA analysis, Liquid-based cytology (LBC) and p16/Ki-67 dual staining. Colposcopy and biopsy were performed on women with any abnormal result.

Results

p16/Ki-67 positivity increased with histologic severity. It was 18.4%(183/996) in normal histology, 54.0%(34/63) in CIN1, 81.0%(34/42) in CIN2, 93.3%(111/119) in CIN3, 71.4% (5/7) in adenocarcinoma and 95.2%(60/63) in squamous cell carcinoma. Compared with the HR-HPV negatives, p16/Ki-67 expression was significantly higher in the HPV16/18 positive (OR: 35.45(95%CI: 23.35-53.84)) and other 12 HR-HPV types positive group (OR: 8.01(95%CI: 5.81-11.05). The sensitivity and specificity of p16/Ki-67 to detect CIN2+ in the entire population were 90.9% and 79.5%, respectively. In women with ASC-US and LSIL, sensitivity and specificity for detection of CIN2+ were 87.5% and 66.4%, respectively, with a referral rate of 43.8%. In women who tested positive for HR-HPV, sensitivity and specificity of dual-staining for detection of CIN2+ were 92.7% and 52.7%, respectively, and the referral rate was 68.7%.

Conclusions

p16/Ki-67 dual-stained cytology provided a high sensitivity and moderate specificity to detect underlying cervical precancer and cancers in various settings, and might be considered as an efficient screening tool in China.

High-risk human papillomavirus genotype distribution and attribution to cervical cancer and precancerous lesions in a rural Chinese population

Objective

To explore the genotype distribution of high-risk human papillomavirus (HR-HPV) and its attribution to different grades of cervical lesions in rural China, which will contribute to type-specific HPV screening tests and the development of new polyvalent HPV vaccines among the Chinese population.

Methods

One thousand two hundred ninety-two subjects were followed based on the Shanxi Province Cervical Cancer Screening Study I (SPOCCS-I), and screened by HPV DNA testing (hybrid capture® 2 [HC2]), liquid-based cytology (LBC), and if necessary, directed or random colposcopy-guided quadrant biopsies. HPV genotyping with linear inverse probe hybridization (SPF10-PCR-LiPA) was performed in HC2 positive specimens. Attribution of specific HR-HPV type to different grades of cervical lesions was estimated using a fractional contribution approach.

Results

After excluding incomplete data, 1,274 women were included in the final statistical analysis. Fifteen point two percent (194/1,274) of women were HR-HPV positive for any of 13 HR-HPV types (HPV16, 18, 31, 33, 35, 39, 45, 51, 52, 56, 58, 59, and 68) and the most common HR-HPV types were HPV16 (19.1%) and HPV52 (16.5%). The genotypes most frequently detected in HR-HPV-positive cervical intraepithelial neoplasia grade 1 (CIN1) were HPV52 (24.1%), HPV31 (20.7%), HPV16 (13.8%), HPV33 (13.8%), HPV39 (10.3%), and HPV56 (10.3%); in HR-HPV-positive cervical intraepithelial neoplasia grade 2 or worse (CIN2+): HPV16 (53.1%), HPV58 (15.6%), HPV33 (12.5%), HPV51 (9.4%), and HPV52 (6.3%). HPV52, 31, 16, 33, 39, and 56 together contributed to 89.7% of HR-HPV-positive CIN1, and HPV16, 33, 58, 51, and 52 together contributed to 87.5% of CIN2+.

Conclusion

In summary, we found substantial differences in prevalence and attribution of CINs between different oncogenic HPV types in a rural Chinese population, especially for HPV16, 31, 33, 52, and 58. These differences may be relevant for both clinical management and the design of preventive strategies.

Uptake of HPV testing and extended cervical cancer screening intervals following cytology alone and Pap/HPV cotesting in women aged 30-65 years

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the adoption of HPV testing and recommended extended cervical cancer screening intervals in clinical practice, we described yearly uptake of Pap/HPV cotesting and estimated length of time between normal screens by patient characteristics.

METHODS

We examined 55,575 Pap/HPV records from 27,035 women aged 30-65 years from the Johns Hopkins Hospital Pathology Data System between 2006 and 2013. Cotest uptake and median times to next screening test for cotests and cytology only were calculated. Adjusted hazard ratios were estimated using Cox proportional hazards models, with random effects adjustment for clustering within clinic.

RESULTS

Cotest usage increased from < 10% in 2006 to 78% in 2013. The median time to next screening test following normal cytology alone remained constant around 1.5 years. Screening intervals following a dual-negative cotest increased from 1.5 years in 2006/2007 to 2.5 years in 2010, coincident with increases in the proportion of women cotested. Intervals following a dual negative cotest were longer among Medicare patients (3 years) compared with privately insured women (2.5 years), and shorter among black (2 years) compared with white women (2.8 years).

CONCLUSION

By mid-2013 we observed broad adoption of Pap/HPV cotesting in routine screening in a large academic medical center. Increased screening intervals were observed only among cotested women, while those screened by cytology alone continued to be screened almost annually. The influence of different combinations of race and insurance on screening intervals should be further evaluated to ensure balance of screening risks and benefits in the U.S.

POPULATION

Prediction of cervical cancer incidence in England, UK, up to 2040, under four scenarios: a modelling study

BACKGROUND

In the next 25 years, the epidemiology of cervical cancer in England, UK, will change: human papillomavirus (HPV) screening will be the primary test for cervical cancer. Additionally, the proportion of women screened regularly is decreasing and women who received the HPV vaccine are due to attend screening for the first time. Therefore, we aimed to estimate how vaccination against HPV, changes to the screening test, and falling screening coverage will affect cervical cancer incidence in England up to 2040.

METHODS

We did a data modelling study that combined results from population modelling of incidence trends, observable data from the individual level with use of a generalised linear model, and microsimulation of unobservable disease states. We estimated age-specific absolute risks of cervical cancer in the absence of screening (derived from individual level data). We used an age period cohort model to estimate birth cohort effects. We multiplied the absolute risks by the age cohort effects to provide absolute risks of cervical cancer for unscreened women in different birth cohorts. We obtained relative risks (RRs) of cervical cancer by screening history (never screened, regularly screened, or lapsed attender) using data from a population-based case-control study for unvaccinated women, and using a microsimulation model for vaccinated women. RRs of primary HPV screening were relative to cytology. We used the proportion of women in each 5-year age group (25-29 years to 75-79 years) and 5-year period (2016-20 to 2036-40) who have a combination of screening and vaccination history, and weighted to estimate the population incidence. The primary outcome was the number of cases and rates per 100 000 women under four scenarios: no changes to current screening coverage or vaccine uptake and HPV primary testing from 2019 (status quo), changing the year in which HPV primary testing is introduced, introduction of the nine-valent vaccine, and changes to cervical screening coverage.

FINDINGS

The status quo scenario estimated that the peak age of cancer diagnosis will shift from the ages of 25-29 years in 2011-15 to 55-59 years in 2036-40. Unvaccinated women born between 1975 and 1990 were predicted to have a relatively high risk of cervical cancer throughout their lives. Introduction of primary HPV screening from 2019 could reduce age-standardised rates of cervical cancer at ages 25-64 years by 19%, from 15·1 in 2016 to 12·2 per 100 000 women as soon as 2028. Vaccination against HPV types 16 and 18 (HPV 16/18) could see cervical cancer rates in women aged 25-29 years decrease by 55% (from 20·9 in 2011-15 to 9·5 per 100 000 women by 2036-40), and introduction of nine-valent vaccination from 2019 compared with continuing vaccination against HPV 16/18 will reduce rates by a further 36% (from 9·5 to 6·1 per 100 000 women) by 2036-40. Women born before 1991 will not benefit directly from vaccination; therefore, despite vaccination and primary HPV screening with current screening coverage, European age-standardised rates of cervical cancer at ages 25-79 years will decrease by only 10% (from 12·8 in 2011-15 to 11·5 per 100 000 women in 2036-40). If screening coverage fell to 50%, European age-standardised rates could increase by 27% (from 12·8 to 16·3 per 100 000 by 2036-40).

INTERPRETATION

Going forward, focus should be placed on scenarios that offer less intensive screening for vaccinated women and more on increasing coverage and incorporation of new technologies to enhance current cervical screening among unvaccinated women.

FUNDING

Jo's Cervical Cancer Trust and Cancer Research UK.