Efficiency of PCR and Hybrid Capture technique for HPV detection: an integrative review

Abstract

The Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is responsible for causing one of the most common sexually transmitted infections. HPV is categorized into two groups (low and high oncogenic risk). The objective was to determine if the Polymerase Chain Reaction technique is more efficient for the detection of HPV compared to the Hybrid Capture technique. Searches were conducted using the descriptors: “HPV”, “Hybrid Capture”, “PCR” and “Identification”. Both national and international studies, written in Portuguese and English, and published from 2011 to 2021 were included. Articles published in another language, not compatible with the theme, published outside the pre-established period were excluded. Of 62 articles found, six were selected. The population studied ranged from 118 to 1675 participants, totaling a group of 2422 tests; within these group, 276 tests were performed with male patients with HIV. All studies included PCR and HC methodologies, with the aim of comparing the performance of these assays for detection of HPV. Arguably, the evidence base supports the notion that HPV testing may provide an advantage in screening patients with questionable cytology.