WHO HPV LabNet Training Workshop on HPV Genotyping and HPV Serology Laboratory Performance

Overview

A theoretical and practical training workshop was organized in the Regional WHO HPV Reference Laboratory (RRL, Europe), in Lausanne, Switzerland, on 15-18 March 2010, to provide knowledge and information on all aspects involved in good HPV laboratory testing performance including practical performance of proficient HPV genotyping and serology assays. The participants were from countries where HPV laboratory testing is being actively set up. Implementing good performance of HPV laboratory testing and international standardization will ensure that proficient and standardized assays are used in HPV epidemiological studies and reliable data are generated to promote international harmonization of HPV laboratory testing and comparability of data across different laboratories. Information on HPV laboratory activities to support HPV surveillance and monitoring in respective countries were presented by the participants. A comprehensive HPV Laboratory Manual (developed by the WHO HPV Laboratory Network) and critical materials were provided to the participants to take back to set up new assays in their laboratories. Participants regarded this training very informative, helpful and in good timing when they are setting up HPV laboratory testing capacity in the countries to support HPV epidemiological studies. Networking between national HPV laboratories with the WHO HPV LabNet was promoted.