Effects of Screening Methods on the Detection Rate of Cervical Pathology and Their Correlation

Abstract

Background: Cervical cancer is a major health concern among Indian women, with HPV-16/18 accounting for most invasive cervical cancers. Cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) may occur at a younger age, making effective screening important for early detection. Methodology: A prospective cross-sectional study was conducted among 104 women at the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, MGM Medical College & Hospital, Aurangabad, using Pap smear, HPV testing, and colposcopy. Results: Screening test positivity was higher among women aged 31–50 years. White vaginal discharge was the most common complaint (41%), followed by abdominal pain (14%). On speculum examination, cervical erosion was found in 17.3% and hypertrophy in 11.5%. Pap smear showed inflammation in 19.2% of cases, while HPV testing was negative in 90.4%. Colposcopy findings were predominantly normal (86.5%), with a small proportion showing CIN. Pap smear showed 40% sensitivity and 91.49% specificity compared with HPV testing. Conclusion: Multimodal screening using Pap smear, HPV testing, and colposcopy is useful for detecting cervical pathology. HPV testing and co-testing may improve early detection, while biopsy remains the gold standard for definitive diagnosis.

Keywords: Cervical Cancer, Screening, PAP smear, Colposcopy, Human papilloma virus.