HPV genotyping in cervical cancer prevention: After a negative hrHPV test in co-testing (HPV + Pap cytology), the recommended interval for next cervical cancer screening per current guidelines is:

• A 1 year
• B 3 years
• C 5 years ✓
• D 10 years

Explanation

Per ASCCP 2019 and WHO guidelines, after a negative co-test (negative hrHPV and negative cytology), the reassurance interval is 5 years because a negative hrHPV test provides better negative predictive value than cytology alone. In primary hrHPV testing alone (without co-testing), the interval is also 5 years after a negative result. Annual screening is no longer recommended as it leads to over-detection and over-treatment. The 5-year interval reflects the biology of HPV infection: progression from infection to CIN 2/3 to invasive cancer takes at least 10–15 years, providing sufficient time for detection even with extended intervals.

Reference: Shaw's Textbook of Gynaecology, 17th ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.