Abstract
Aim To compare the efficacy of VIA, VILI, PAP smear, and FRD tests [Folate Receptor-Mediated Staining solution detection], for cervical cancer screening.
Methodology
Women attending colposcopy and cervical cancer screening clinic were offered FRD test. This is an applicator to touch the cervix and detect color change using FRD solution. Pap smear was done a day prior to colposcopy. Informed consent was obtained and a calculated sample size of 203 women were enrolled. Colposcopic directed cervical biopsy was taken for 126 women.
Results
The results of screening tests PAP smear, VIA, VILI, VIA/ VILI combination, and FRD test were compared with histopathological reports of cervical biopsy. PAP smears with specificity of 96%, diagnostic accuracy of 92%, had sensitivity of 25%, and missed two cases of cervical cancer and four cases of HSIL. The combination of VIA and VILI tests under 6× magnification showed sensitivity of 100%, specificity of 24.58%, and diagnostic accuracy of 29.37%. FRD tests showed sensitivity of 100%, with nil false-negative results, specificity of 76.27%, and diagnostic accuracy of 77.78%.
Conclusion
Among the screening tests the VIA/VILI combination and FRD tests gave instant results for cervical cancer screening. The FRD test, with higher sensitivity, than that of PAP smear and higher accuracy than that of combined VIA/VILI tests, showed good efficacy to identify CIN2 + lesions in women who would require colposcopy and cervical biopsy for early detection of precancerous lesions of cervix and cervical cancer.