We evaluated the prevalence of human papillomavirus (HPV) infection and correlated the molecular test results with the cytological examination data (PAP test) in 364 women living in central-southern Italy (Molise region), by means of polymerase chain reaction HPV DNA genotyping and of cervical cytology.
Human papillomavirus infection test results detected by Southern blot hybridization and polymerase chain reaction from physician-administered and MY-PAP self-administered cervicovaginal lavage were paired for comparison.
Colposcopy, punch biopsy, in situ DNA hybridization, and the polymerase chain reaction in searching for genital human papillomavirus (HPV) infections in women with normal PAP smears.