Differences Between HPV Test and TCT Test

What is HPV Test?

HPV, short for Human Papillomavirus, is widely present in nature and humans are its only host. Women are more susceptible to HPV than men. There are multiple types of HPV that can cause benign warts or papillomas on human skin and mucous membranes, and some types of HPV infections are carcinogenic. An HPV test is conducted to determine whether someone is infected with HPV. More and more women are paying attention to their HPV infection status. If high-risk HPV infection is detected and left untreated, it can lead to cervical cancer.

What is TCT Test?

The ThinPrep Cytologic Test (TCT) is a highly advanced cervical cytology screening technology widely used in clinical practice internationally. It is particularly used for the examination of patients with abnormal vaginal bleeding, painful intercourse, a history of miscarriage, lower abdominal pain and other conditions. The TCT has a detection rate of over 90% for cervical cancer cells. A special cervical swab is required for sampling, which is the same as for HPV testing, and both tests can be performed simultaneously.

Main Differences

Both HPV testing and TCT testing are non-invasive tests that can be used for cervical cancer screening, but the focus of the tests is different. TCT testing represents the result, while HPV testing looks for the cause.

TCT is used to check for abnormal changes in cervical cells. In addition to routine cervical cancer screening, TCT testing is also suitable for women with a history of cervicitis, a family history of cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) or cervical cancer, and those who use immunosuppressants.

HPV infection is a high-risk factor for cervical cancer and cervical lesions. Detecting its presence can help detect diseases early. In addition to women undergoing cervical cancer screening, it is also suitable for women with increased vaginal discharge, odor, recurrent genital infections, cervical erosion, bleeding during intercourse, and irregular vaginal bleeding. Timely and effective prevention and treatment measures can prevent the occurrence of cervical lesions and cervical cancer.

How to Choose Between Two Tests?

Women under the age of 30, especially those under the age of 25, often clear HPV infections naturally with the help of their own immune system. Therefore, they can undergo liquid-based thin-layer cell testing (TCT) for cervical cancer screening. However, women over the age of 30 should undergo combined HPV and TCT screening. TCT as a single cytological test is not sufficient to fully assess a woman’s risk of cervical cancer. Therefore, HPV as a supplementary means of cervical cancer screening can improve the sensitivity and effectiveness of screening. If both tests are abnormal, further biopsy should be performed to confirm the diagnosis.

How Often Should You Get Tested?

HPV is one of the primary causes of cervical cancer. Preventing cervical cancer is a lifelong endeavor for women. Early detection of precancerous cervical lesions and cervical cancer can be achieved through regular screening, ensuring early treatment.

It is recommended that women undergo TCT testing annually and HPV testing every two to three years. Throughout their lifetime, women should undergo TCT and HPV testing a minimum of 7 to 12 times. Both HPV and TCT tests involve collecting exfoliated cells from the surface of the cervix. The use of a specialized soft cervical swab results in minimal discomfort.

Precautions before the test

1. Avoid the menstrual period; cervical sampling cannot be performed during menstruation.
2. Refrain from sexual intercourse for at least three days prior to the test to ensure accurate results.
3. Stop any intravaginal treatment for at least three days prior to the test and avoid douching, washing or using gel suppositories that may interfere with the test results.

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