Rationale: Screening is a routine test for women without symptoms. Since most HPV infections are self-limiting, cervical cancer develops gradually over time, and HPV testing is more sensitive than cytology, a 5-year interval is currently considered safe. The Cancer Registry provides an overview of the guidelines and a detailed rationale for the changes in the screening program (see reference). HPV testing outside the screening program applies to patients with symptoms and those who are immunosuppressed.
References:
- https://www.kreftregisteret.no/screening/livmorhalsprogrammet/
- https://www.kreftregisteret.no/screening/livmorhalsprogrammet/Helsepersonell/screeningstrategi-og-nasjonale-retningslinjer/HPV-i-primarscreening/