HPV vs PAP: A Perspective

Date: June 18, 2008 1:00 p.m. - 2:15 p.m. CT
Course Author:
R. Marshall Austin, MD, PhD, FASCP
Director of Cytopathology and Professor of Pathology, Magee-Womens Hospital of University of Pittsburgh Medical Center Pittsburgh, PA
Registration Deadline: June 12, 2008 5:00 p.m. CT

International trials on HPV testing and Pap testing have resulted in media coverage and review articles which have implied that Pap-based population screening is obsolete and that the Pap test should soon be replaced with primary screening by HPV testing as a stand alone test. How have international trials and widely cited U.S. studies been designed and how applicable are the results to available FDA-approved screening methods now used in the U.S.? To what extent have available trials ensured use of optimal quality cytology management practices and use of new technology methods now widely available in the U.S.? Do the limitations of HPV testing encountered in international trials and U.S. studies actually support abandonment of Pap-based screening in the U.S.? What should the outcome measures be for trials in the U.S. seeking to compare Pap and HPV testing? How closely linked are advocates of primary HPV screening and HPV test manufacturers? All these questions, likley to be at the center of ongoing debates over the next decade, will be explored from a cytopathology-oriented and historical perspective.

Following this course, you will be able to:

• Assess the current debate over Pap versus HPV screening and lessons learned from international clinical and U.S. trials.
• Describe the strengths and limitations of Pap-based screening and available FDA-approved Options for optimized Pap screening.
• Describe the strengths and limitations of HPV testing and available FDA-approved options for optimized use of HPV testing.

Note: Course fee includes audio CD. CD is mailed after the program and arrives in 7-10 business days.

The ASCP designates these educational activities for a maximum of 1 AMA PRA Category 1 Credits™. Physicians should only claim credit commensurate with the extent of their participation n the activities.

These activities meet MOC Part II Lifelong Learning requirements.

ASCP designates these activities for a maximum of 1 CMLE credits. These activities meet CMP and state licensure requirements for laboratory personnel.