A pencil-sized device that can be swept across the surface of the cervix to detect cancer may soon be available. The probe emits both electrical pulses and light. The head of the probe catches return signals from the woman's cervical cells and compares them with a computer library of cancer cells. Lights on the probe indicate either normal cervical tissue or the presence of abnormal tissue. If the Pap smear reveals cellular changes caused by HPV, a more specific test called a Virapap, which is performed like a Pap smear, can detect not only the presence of HPV but also the various genetic strains of the infection.
Topical ointments are available for treatment.
It should be noted, however, that there were more severe cases in the podofilox group, and experts warn that a direct comparison using these results may not be appropriate. Patients using these skin creams experience itching, burning, and other skin irritation. None of these drugs should be used during pregnancy. Trichloroacetic acid is another skin treatment being tried, but it is very caustic and some studies have found it ineffective. In its natural form, interferon-alpha is a product of the immune system that attacks viruses directly.