Cytologic Monitoring, Management of Cervical Cancer, and Control of Human Papillomavirus

Abstract

Cervical cancer is the second most common cause of cancer-related death among women that is caused by Human Papillomavirus, a double-stranded virus that leads to cellular alterations in the cervical squamocolumnar junction. Most HPV infections are cleared by the host immune system, while very low cases progress to invasive carcinoma due to persistent infection and other contributory risk factors. Several screening techniques have been devised over the years to detect Human Papillomavirus at an early stage, the most common being the Pap smear test, which is capable of detecting benign cellular changes and also squamous intraepithelial neoplasias. Other important techniques involve visual inspection with acetic acid (VIA), colposcopy, and HPV DNA testing. In addition, recent advances have led to the development of new techniques such as biosensor and bioreceptor technology and loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP). Several methods have been in place to prevent the increased incidence of cervical cancer. Among these is the development of Prophylactic HPV vaccines, which elicit a humoral immune response against about 15 HPV genotypes but have the limitation of not curing an established cancer. Several trials are underway on developing a therapeutic vaccine that will be effective in curing cervical cancer.