Cytology and DNA HPV-testing in the era of HPV-vaccine

Abstract

Human papillomavirus (HPV) persistent infection is the main factor leading to the cervical cancer carcinogenesis. Wide-spread public vaccination against HPV as primary prevention is expected to reduce cervical cancer incidence and mortality rates. It is essential to bear in mind that screening for precancerous lesions cannot be discontinued because vaccination will not protect the patients against HPV types which have not been included in the first and second generation of vaccines.