Evolving HPV diagnostics: current practice and future frontiers

Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection serves as a primary causative agent of cervical cancer, highlighting the importance of early screening and detection in mitigating the incidence and mortality rates of HPV-related diseases. Over the past decades, HPV detection technologies have evolved considerably, transitioning from traditional methods to more advanced, patient-centered approaches. This review provides a comprehensive overview of both established and emerging HPV detection strategies, with a particular focus on their clinical applicability, technical advantages, and limitations. Conventional methods such as hybrid capture and PCR-based assays remain the backbone of clinical screening, offering robust sensitivity and specificity. However, their reliance on invasive sampling and centralized laboratory infrastructure limits accessibility and patient compliance, particularly in low-resource settings. To address these limitations, emerging technologies-including CRISPR/Cas systems, droplet digital PCR (ddPCR), next-generation sequencing (NGS), isothermal amplification techniques (IAT) and artificial intelligence (AI) combined with hpv screening offer enhanced accuracy, rapid turnaround, and the potential for point-of-care deployment. In parallel, innovations in sampling such as self-collected vaginal swabs and liquid biopsy using urine, blood, or extracellular vesicles are improving test acceptability and broadening screening coverage. By summarizing current progress and highlighting ongoing challenges, this review aims to guide the development of more precise, non-invasive, and scalable HPV detection strategies to reduce the global burden of HPV-related disease, support global prevention efforts, and guide public health policies.