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HPV Self-Collection Screening (HPV-SCS)
Ordering Recommendation
The HPV Cervical Cancer Self-Collection Test is a highly sensitive screening tool that enables patients to collect their own vaginal sample using an FDA-approved device. After collection, the specimen is processed using advanced nucleic acid amplification methods (typically PCR-based) to qualitatively detect high-risk HPV DNA associated with cervical cancer. This self-collected approach offers comparable diagnostic accuracy to traditional clinician-collected samples while minimizing discomfort and barriers associated with pelvic examinations, making it an effective option for early detection and timely clinical follow-up.
Mnemonic
HPV Self-Collection Screening (HPV-SCS)
Methodology
The specimen is processed using nucleic acid amplification techniques (generally PCR-based methods) to qualitatively detect the presence of high-risk HPV DNA.
Performed
Mon-Sat
Reported
Within 3-5 days
Specimen Required
Patient Preparation:
Collect:
Wash your hands and remove the sterile self-collection device before gently inserting it into the vagina up to the indicated marker. Rotate the device 2–3 times as instructed to collect an adequate sample, then carefully withdraw it.
Refrain from douching, using intravaginal medications, or applying topical agents for at least 48 hours prior to collection. • Avoid sexual intercourse for 24–48 hours before sample collection. • If menstruating, confirm with the provider whether sample collection should be postponed until menses have ceased.
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Specimen Preparation:
Immediately place the collection device into the provided vial containing the appropriate viral transport medium. Secure the vial cap tightly and gently invert the vial to mix the specimen with the medium. Ensure that the specimen is labeled accurately with patient identification and collection date/time.
Storage/Transport Temperature:
Maintain at 2–8°C during storage and transport. Avoid freezing unless the test kit instructions specifically allow it. Prompt transport to the laboratory is advised to maintain sample integrity.
Unacceptable Conditions:
Specimens that are unlabeled or improperly labeled. Inadequate sample volume or insufficient cellular material. Contaminated samples (e.g., with menstrual blood or external substances) beyond acceptable limits. Specimens showing leakage or compromised container integrity. Samples exposed to temperatures outside the recommended range prior to processing
Remarks:
Specimen source required.
Stability:
Reference Interval
Negative
Interpretive Data
A positive result should be correlated with clinical history and may necessitate additional diagnostic procedures. Careful patient education on follow-up steps and interpretation of results is essential. This test should be used as a screening tool only; abnormal findings must be evaluated in conjunction with other clinical assessments.
Note
CPT Code
87624
Aliases
HPV Cervical Cancer Self-Collection Self-Collected HPV Test
HPV DNA Test (Self-Collected)
Cervical HPV Self-Sampling
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