The hybrid capture test is a test that can be indicated to investigate infection with the Human Papillomavirus, HPV, in both men and women. This test allows you to identify the different types of HPV and classify them into two groups, which is useful for assessing the risk of developing cervical cancer and the need for treatment:
- Low-risk group (group A): do not cause cancer and there are 5 types;
- High-risk group (group B): can cause cancer and there are 13 types.
The hybrid capture test is normally indicated when signs and symptoms of HPV infection are identified, such as warts and lesions in the genital region, burning and itching in the region. See how to recognize HPV infection.
What is it for
The hybrid capture test serves to help diagnose HPV infection and should be done by all women who have had any changes in the Pap smear or who are at risk of contracting HPV, such as those who have many sexual partners. .
Furthermore, the exam can also be carried out in men, when there is some change observed in the peniscopy or when there is a risk of being infected by the virus.
How to prepare for the exam
To carry out the hybrid capture exam, the woman must make an appointment with a gynecologist and not have sexual intercourse 3 days before the appointment, not be menstruating and not have used any type of shower or vaginal wash for 1 week, as these factors can alter the fidelity of the exam and confer a false-positive or false-negative result.
Preparation for the hybrid capture test in men also includes not having sexual intercourse 3 days before and in case of collection through the urethra, also not having urinated for at least 4 hours and in case of collection through the penis, being at least 8 hours without local hygiene
How the exam is carried out
The hybrid capture exam is done by scraping a small sample of vaginal mucus from the cervix, vagina or vulva. This exam can also be done with anal or oral secretions. In men, the material used comes from secretions from the glans, urethra or penis.
The collected material is placed in a test tube and sent to the laboratory for analysis. In the laboratory, the sample is processed by semi-automated equipment, which carries out the reactions and, based on the results obtained, releases the laboratory conclusion, which is analyzed by the doctor.
The hybrid capture exam does not hurt, but the person may feel some discomfort at the time of collection.
Hybrid capture result for HPV
The hybrid capture result is given by the RLU/PC ratio. The result is considered positive when the RLU/PCA ratio, for group A viruses, and/or RLU/PCB, for group B viruses, is equal to or greater than 1.
It is important that the result of the exam is evaluated by the doctor, who must take into account signs and symptoms presented by the person. If a positive result for group B has been identified, a biopsy may also be indicated to check whether there is a risk of progression to cervical cancer.
