Patients successfully treated for high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions can now be given the option of HPV self-collection under revised test-of-cure advice.

Under changes to the guidelines, from April this year people treated for high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions can be managed with annual HPV tests as test of cure rather than co-testing with liquid-based cytology (LBC).

GPs are advised to offer annual HPV tests until two consecutive negative results are reported, at which point the patient can return to routine five-yearly screening.

Self- or clinician-collected samples can be used, depending on the patient’s preference, the guideline authors say.