Recurrent cervical cancer detection using DNA methylation markers in self-collected samples from home

Mirte Schaafsma ^1,2,3, Rianne van den Helder ^4,5, Constantijne H Mom ⁶

⁰Department of Gynecologic Oncology, Center of Gynecologic Oncology Amsterdam, Antoni van Leeuwenhoek/Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.

International Journal of Cancer +

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August 22, 2024

View abstract on PubMed

Summary

Early detection of recurrent cervical cancer is crucial for survival. DNA methylation and high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV) testing in self-collected cervicovaginal and urine samples show promise for monitoring recurrence.

Area Of Science

Oncology
Molecular Diagnostics
Gynecologic Oncology

Background

Early detection of recurrent cervical cancer is vital for improving patient survival rates.
Current monitoring strategies may benefit from enhanced diagnostic tools for improved sensitivity and specificity.

Purpose Of The Study

To evaluate the clinical performance of DNA methylation markers and high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV) testing.
To assess the utility of these markers in cervicovaginal self-samples and urine for detecting recurrent cervical cancer.

Main Methods

Cervical cancer patients (n=47 without recurrence, n=20 with recurrence) provided self-collected cervicovaginal and urine samples pre- and post-treatment or at recurrence.
Samples were analyzed for DNA methylation and high-risk HPV DNA using PCR.

Main Results

DNA methylation levels decreased posttreatment in patients without recurrence.
DNA methylation positivity was significantly higher in recurrent cases (77.8% in cervicovaginal samples, 65% in urine) compared to non-recurrent cases (25.5% and 35.6%, respectively).
High-risk HPV positivity was also more frequent in recurrent cases (52.6% and 55% in samples and urine, respectively) versus non-recurrent cases (14.9% and 8.5%).

Conclusions

DNA methylation and high-risk HPV testing in self-collected cervicovaginal and urine samples offer a promising approach for posttreatment monitoring of cervical cancer recurrence.
DNA methylation testing in cervicovaginal self-samples demonstrated the highest detection rate for recurrence (77.8%), including 100% of local recurrences.

Keywords:

DNA methylation levels cervical cancer recurrence remote monitoring self‐sampling