On completion of this section the cytotechnologist should know:

• To understand the pathobiology of the human papillomaviruses and their morphology, genomic organisation and function.
• To understand the natural history of infection and histological appearances of infection
• To understand the role of the HPV in cervical carcinogenesis
• To know the methods available for detecting HPV infection and their place in clinical practice
• To understand the role of DNA testing for HPV in a clinical setting
• To be aware of the immune response to HPV   and its importance in the development of vaccines
• To be aware of  clinical trials of HPV vaccines and the place of a new vaccine in clinical practice