The human papillomavirus (HPV) is the most common sexually transmitted infection (STI) in the world. There are over 150 identified HPV types, and only a limited number of strains (i.e. 14 high-risk HPV strains) cause problems by changing cells from normal to abnormal, potentially leading to cervical cancer. HPV screening is an important tool to prevent cervical cancer by detecting the virus early, when it can be more easily treated.
HPV screening is usually performed using a Pap test or an HPV test. The Pap test looks for abnormal cells in the cervix, while the HPV test looks for the presence of HPV DNA. If an HPV test is positive, it means that the person has HPV. However, not all HPV types cause cancer, so the next step is to perform HPV genotyping.
HPV genotyping is a test that can identify the specific type of HPV a person has. This information can be used to help guide treatment decisions. For example, people who have HPV 16 or 18, the two HPV types most closely linked to cervical cancer, may need more frequent check-ups than people who have other HPV types.
HPV vaccination strategies are changing the prevalence of specific HPV types in the female population: in the coming years, there will be a different distribution and prevalence of genotypes.
In addition to helping guide treatment decisions, HPV genotyping can also help reduce anxiety for women with a positive HPV test. Knowing the specific type of HPV they have can help women understand their risk of developing cervical cancer and make informed decisions about their treatment.
In recent years, the importance of HPV genotyping has been the subject of scientific studies and publications. The necessity of genotyping in screening strategies is still being discussed among experts and institutions. A recent article by a research team from the 'Center for Cervical Cancer Elimination, Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology' and the 'Center for Cervical Cancer Elimination, ME pathology and cancer diagnostics, Karolinska University Hospital' in Stockholm, Sweden, highlights the need to accelerate HPV genotyping in screening strategies. It can be expected that the way HPV screening is performed will soon undergo major transformations. This includes the increase of self-administered tests for greater accessibility, the development of automated triage tests to improve accuracy and efficiency, and adjustments of screening protocols for women who have received the HPV vaccine.
Ulysse Biomed was founded around the development of innovative technologies for HPV genotyping. Indeed, "the proprietary Sagitta™ technology expresses its best capability in HPV genotyping," says Rudy Ippodrino, CSO and co-founder of Ulisse Biomed.
'Ulisse Biomed's HPV DNA test is capable of analysing and genotyping up to 30 different HPV strains, being one of the most comprehensive certified HPV DNA tests on the market,' adds Nicola Basile, CEO of Ulisse Biomed. "Ulisse Biomed, with its solutions, is committed and ready to further support laboratories, clinics, hospitals and institutions for future HPV testing strategies and activities," Basile concludes.
Contact an expert at Ulysse Biomed to go beyond your current diagnostic capabilities.
