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Published on: March 8, 2012
Evaluation of the FTA carrier device for human papillomavirus testing in developing countries
Paula Gonzalez1, Bernal Cortes, Wim Quint
1Proyecto Epidemiológico Guanacaste, Fundación INCIENSA, Guanacaste, Costa Rica. pgonzalez@proyectoguanacaste.org
Journal of Clinical Microbiology
|September 21, 2012
Summary
FTA cartridges offer a simpler, cost-effective alternative for human papillomavirus (HPV) DNA testing compared to liquid-based methods. This method shows comparable, and in some cases higher, HPV detection rates, especially in challenging transport and storage conditions.
Area of Science:
- Molecular diagnostics
- Public health
- Gynecologic oncology
Background:
- Liquid-based cytology methods for cervical cell collection are effective but present challenges in transportation, storage, and DNA extraction.
- Human Papillomavirus (HPV) DNA testing is crucial for cervical cancer screening and prevention.
- Developing countries face logistical hurdles in maintaining the integrity of cervical specimens for HPV testing.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the efficacy of FTA (Forensic and Tissue Assurance) cartridges versus traditional PreservCyt liquid-based medium for human papillomavirus (HPV) DNA detection.
- To evaluate the feasibility of using FTA cartridges for cervical cell collection, transportation, and storage in resource-limited settings.
- To assess the impact of FTA collection on subsequent cytological adequacy.
Main Methods:
- Cervical specimens from 319 women were collected using a Cervex brush, with samples divided between FTA cartridges and PreservCyt medium.
- HPV-DNA detection and typing were performed using the SPF(10) PCR/DEIA/LiPA(25) system for both collection methods.
- Specimen adequacy for cytology was assessed, and agreement statistics (percent agreement, agreement among positives, kappa) were calculated.
Main Results:
- HPV-DNA positivity was significantly higher in specimens collected on FTA cartridges (54.5%) compared to PreservCyt medium (45.8%).
- High overall agreement (0.92) and kappa (0.79) were observed for oncogenic HPV types between the two methods.
- Individual HPV type agreement ranged from 0.97 to 1.00, indicating excellent concordance.
- No reduction in cytology adequacy was noted when FTA collection preceded cytology sampling.
Conclusions:
- FTA cartridges provide a viable, simpler, and potentially more cost-effective alternative for cervical cell collection and HPV-DNA testing, particularly in settings with challenging transportation and storage conditions.
- The higher HPV detection rates with FTA cartridges warrant further investigation.
- FTA cartridges do not compromise the quality of cervical cells for subsequent cytological examination.
