Detection of human papillomavirus in anal specimens using the hybrid capture 2 assay

Brian Lowe, Stephen E. Goldstone, Szymon Rus, Hiam Salim, Guorong Chen, Thomas Rothmann, Irina Nazarenko

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

11 Scopus citations

Abstract

The hc2 human papillomavirus DNA test (HC2) is effective when screening women for cervical dysplasia, and it might be effective in the screening for anal dysplasia. Differences between the anal and the cervical canals could affect the test performance. This prospective study (n=292) measured the HC2 signal and in agreement with a histologic endpoint of high-grade dysplasia for anal specimens collected in various ways. Sensitivities were 91%, 85%, and 62% for specimens collected in a sample transport medium and a liquid-based cytology medium processed by Gyn or Non-Gyn protocol, respectively. HC2 sensitivity and specificity to predict high-grade anal dysplasia were similar for brush or swab specimen collections, but HC2 signal was 6 times higher with the brush. Specificity and sensitivity were similar whether the sample was collected first or after a cytology sample for brush or swab, but swab specimens at the second collection had an HC2 signal (mean) 48% lower than that of the first collection, and the swab cellularity was lower. The presence of maximum stool decreased the HC2 signal in anal swab specimens. Consensus polymerase chain reaction (PCR) confirmed that the 13 human papillomavirus probe types in HC2 were optimal for performance. HC2 could potentially be further investigated for use in screening anal dysplasia. A larger prospective study is indicated.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)150-156
Number of pages7
JournalDiagnostic Molecular Pathology
Volume21
Issue number3
DOIs
StatePublished - Sep 2012

Keywords

  • anal cancer screening
  • collection device
  • human papillomavirus
  • hybrid capture

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