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GUIDELINE UPDATES - This guideline was last updated 01/07/2022

This guideline is current until April 2025. Click the link below to access the latest guidelines.

Background

The HPV test is significantly more sensitive than cytology for the detection of cervical abnormalities caused by HPV infection, and a single HPV test for which oncogenic HPV is not detected is considered sufficient to safely discharge women from the NCSP.[1]

MSAC has recommended that women between the ages of 70 and 74 years can cease 5 yearly screening after a HPV test at which oncogenic HPV is not detected.[1]

Recommendations

MSAC evidence-based recommendation

REC6.22: Women aged 70–74 years in whom oncogenic HPV is not detected (exit testing)
Women can be discharged from the NCSP if they are aged 70–74 years and have a screening test at which oncogenic HPV is not detected.

Note: recommendation numbering changed Feb 2021, this was previously REC 6.16

Consensus-based recommendation

REC6.23: Referral of women aged 70–74 years with a positive oncogenic HPV screening test result (exit testing)
Women aged 70–74 who have a positive oncogenic HPV (any type) screening test result should be referred directly for colposcopic assessment, which should be informed by the result of LBC. If the sample was collected by a healthcare provider, then the laboratory will perform reflex LBC. If the sample was self-collected , then a cervical sample for LBC should be collected at the time of colposcopy.

Note: recommendation numbering changed Feb 2021, this was previously REC 6.17


References

  1. Medical Services Advisory Committee. MSAC Outcomes. Application No. 1276 – Renewal of the National Cervical Screening Program. [homepage on the internet] Canberra: Australian Government Department of Health; 2014 [updated 2015 Apr]. Available from: http://www.msac.gov.au/internet/msac/publishing.nsf/Content/FD36D6990FFAA639CA25799200058940/$File/1276%20-%20Final%20MSAC%20PSD%20-%20NCSP%20Renewal.pdf.

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