Detection of human papillomavirus DNA by PCR in high-risk women. Validation of a protocol

OBJECTIVE: To validate a protocol for HPV DNA detection using PCR (polymerase chain reaction). METHOD: HPV was investigated in cervical exfoliative specimens from 93 women at high risk for HPV infection Blind comparisons of HPV DNA detection using two PCR protocols were carried out in our laboratory and a widely accepted reference laboratory. RESULTS: HPV DNA prevalence varied according to the different protocols. A good agreement with the reference protocol was reached when a reduction of the cellular amount for DNA extraction was carried out. The prevalence of HPV DNA in this population was 50.5%. All cases with dysplasia were HPV DNA positive. The HPV type distribution was as follows: 29.8% HPV 16, 17% HPV 33, 12.7% HPV 11/6, 12.7%, HPV 18, 23.4% HPV 31, 3.6% HPV 39 y 4.3% HPV 51. An underestimation of the prevalence of HPV 51 was detected by our procedure in relation to the reference laboratory. CONCLUSIONS: HPV DNA detection by PCR may increase with simple protocol modifications. Regular validation studies are important to reach good sensitivity levels.