HPV DNA detection in urine samples of women: ‘an efficacious and accurate alternative to cervical samples?’

Cervical cancers are caused by persistent human papillomavirus (HPV) infections [1]. To date, HPV DNA testing using clinician-obtained cervical cells is the reference for identifying cervical infection. However, great interest has been shown for the use of self-sampling methods to detect HPV [2]. One method for self-sampling to be considered is the collection of first-void urine samples. Urinary HPV DNA testing could offer a non-invasive, more accessible and acceptable sampling method in primary and secondary cervical cancer prevention. Recent standardized and optimized protocols have significantly enhanced the sensitivity of urinary HPV detection [3-6]. Furthermore, interesting biomarkers in the triage of high-risk HPV positive women and follow-up of vaccinated women have been identified in first-void urine samples.