Role of Self-Sampling Devices for HPV Detection in Cervical Cancer Screening: A Systematic Review

The aim of this study is to evaluate self-sampling devices as an innovative resource with high performance, acceptability, and implementation for improving Human Papillomavirus detection in cervical cancer screening.

This systematic review followed PRISMA 2020 guidelines and counts with the PROPERO register. A comprehensive literature search was conducted following the PRISMA guidelines using PubMed, EBSCO, and Scielo databases, including articles published between 2014 and 2025 in English and Spanish. MeSH terms related to "Uterine Cervical Neoplasms," "Papillomaviridae," "Molecular Diagnostic Techniques," and "Self-Testing" were used. Inclusion criteria included clinical trials and comparative studies evaluating self-sampling test performance in terms of sensitivity and specificity values. Exclusion criteria included studies without statistical analysis, duplicates, and test usage with no cervical cancer objective.

Seven eligible studies were included. Self-sampling devices, such as a brush-based device, swab-type device, and sponge-type swabs, demonstrated high acceptability and usability among women, especially in underserved populations. Sensitivity and specificity range oscillated between 75%-91% and 34%-74% respectively, depending on the device and reference method. Compared with clinician-collected samples, most self-collected tests showed comparable diagnostic accuracy, making them a viable option for early detection. Limitations included small sample sizes, heterogeneity in test platforms, and a lack of long-term outcomes.

Self-sampling devices offer an important potential to reduce cervical cancer morbidity and mortality globally, particularly in limited-access health care services. Their implementation in routine women's care and health screening contributes to reducing morbidity and mortality from cervical cancer. Further studies are needed to confirm long-term effectiveness and standardized implementation protocols.