Human Papillomavirus Testing and Conventional Pap Smear Cytology as Optional Screening Tools of Women at Different Risks for Cervical Cancer in the Countries of the Former Soviet Union

Abstract

HCII assay is a sensitive tool in detecting significant pathology, but less specific than the Pap test. A negative HCII test practically precludes high-grade CIN (NPV, >95%). Because the performance characteristics of the HCII test depend on the prevalence of HPV and CIN in the study population, the cost-benefit issues in different settings will be the limiting factor for the application of this test as a screening tool.