Amplification of the chromosome 3q26 region shows high negative predictive value for nonmalignant transformation of LSIL cytologic finding.
OBJECTIVE
The chromosome 3q26 region is a biomarker for cervical cancer. Women with low-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions (LSIL) currently are referred for immediate colposcopy. The objective of this study was to determine the negative predictive value of the 3q26 amplification test for the persistence or regression of LSIL.


METHODS
Archival thin layer cytologic slides of 47 women (14-67 years old) with LSIL were linked to histologic and cytologic end points. To determine 3q status, the slides were hybridized for the chromosome 3q26 region and for the centromere of chromosome 7, as a control, with the use of the standard fluorescent in situ hybridization methods.


RESULTS
The negative predictive value of 3q26 gain for the development of cervical intraepithelial neoplasia grade 2/3 within 1 year was 93% (95% confidence interval, 68- 100); after 21 months, its negative predictive value was 100% (95% confidence interval, 29-100).


CONCLUSIONS
The 3q26 gain might help identify women with LSIL who do not need colposcopy.
Jalali
G Reza
GR
Ikonisys Inc, New Haven, CT, USA.
Herzog
Thomas J
TJ
Dziura
Bruce
B
Walat
Robert
R
Kilpatrick
Michael W
MW
D002893:Chromosomes, Human, Pair 3 / Q000235:genetics*; D003127:Colposcopy; D055088:Early Detection of Cancer; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D017404:In Situ Hybridization, Fluorescence; D030361:Papillomavirus Infections / Q000235:genetics* / Q000473:pathology; D011237:Predictive Value of Tests; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D002578:Uterine Cervical Dysplasia / Q000235:genetics* / Q000473:pathology; D002583:Uterine Cervical Neoplasms / Q000235:genetics* / Q000473:pathology; D014626:Vaginal Smears