Molecular identification of 14 oncogenic human papillomavirus DNA genotypes in cervical cancer suspected cases using RT-PCR

Abstract Background Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is a key etiological factor in cervical cancer, with high-risk (HR) genotypes like HPV 16 and 18 associated with the majority of cervical cancer cases. The HPV HR with 16/18 Genotyping test offers real-time amplification for qualitative detection of HPV DNA in clinical samples, specifically targeting 14 high/intermediate-risk HPV types. This study aims to assess the prevalence of HR HPV genotypes in women and their role in cervical cancer screening. Materials and methods A total of 100 female patients were included in this study, conducted from October 2022 to June 2024 at the Department of Genetics, MGM Medical College and Hospital, Ch. Sambhajinagar (Aurangabad). DNA was extracted from cervical samples and analysed using the Multiplex HPV HR Detection test on RTPCR, which identifies 14 h HPV types (16, 18, 31, 33, 35, 39, 45, 51, 52, 56, 58, 59, 66, and 68). The test utilizes primer probes designed for these genotypes, and amplification is detected using fluorescent reporter dye probes specific to each HR HPV type. Results Of the 100 samples, 8 (8%) tested positive for HR HPV. Among these, the genotypes identified were HPV 16 (3.12%), HPV 31, 33, 35, 52, 58, 51, 56, 66 (4.16%), and HPV 39 or 68 (1.04%). HPV 16 and other genotypes such as 31, 33, 35, 52, 58, 51, 56, and 66 were the most prevalent. Conclusion The extended 14-genotype RT-PCR test improves risk stratification and allows for the identification of multiple HPV infections, which are essential for cervical cancer prevention. The use of RT-PCR in detecting HR HPV genotypes is crucial in early diagnostics and management of cervical cancer.