Which is important for gynecological cancer screening, TCT or HPV?

TCT examination and HPV testing are equally important in gynecological cancer screening, but they are targeted at risk assessment at different stages. TCT can directly detect abnormalities in cervical cells, while HPV testing can identify high-risk viral infections. The combined screening of the two can significantly improve the early detection rate of cervical cancer.

TCT examination can effectively identify cervical intraepithelial neoplasia and early cancer by observing the morphological changes of cervical exfoliated cells under a microscope. Its advantage lies in the intuitive display of the degree of cytological abnormalities and high sensitivity to pathological changes that have already occurred. The examination results were classified using the TBS grading system, with clear criteria ranging from normal to high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions. For patients with abnormal bleeding or contact bleeding symptoms, TCT can quickly locate suspicious lesion areas.

HPV testing uses molecular biology methods to screen for high-risk human papillomavirus infections, especially subtypes with high cancer risk such as 16 and 18. Its core value lies in predicting the risk of cancer and providing early warning before abnormal cell morphology occurs. Persistent high-risk HPV infection is a necessary factor in the development of cervical cancer, and this test has guiding significance for evaluating the effectiveness of vaccination and developing follow-up strategies. Some HPV testing methods can also achieve quantitative analysis of viral load, helping to determine the severity of infection.

It is recommended that women over the age of 30 undergo TCT combined with HPV testing every 3 years, and continue regular screening before the age of 65. Individuals with a history of cervical lesions, immune suppression, or HIV infection should shorten the screening interval. Individuals with screening abnormalities should choose vaginal colposcopy biopsy or follow-up examination after 6-12 months based on the results. Daily attention should be paid to keeping the perineum clean, avoiding multiple sexual partners, and receiving the HPV vaccine can prevent more than 70% of cervical cancer. If there is abnormal vaginal bleeding or discharge, seek medical attention promptly to avoid damaging the microenvironment with vaginal wash.