Identification of volatile organic compound as a novel modality for cervical cancer detection

Abstract

Objective: In this study, we developed a novel detection strategy based on volatile organic compound (VOC) sensing. Persistent infection by human papillomavirus (HPV) may cause biological changes in the cervical epithelium, leading to VOC production. Methods: This study included 200 urine samples from cervical cancer patients and controls that were HPV-negative. Urine samples were collected and measured using a gas sensor array composed of a matrix of 10 sensors. For each analyzed sample, the instrument produced a vector signal encoding the VOC emitted from the urine (urine prints). The urine prints of cervical cancer patients were differentiated from those of healthy controls. Results: Identification of VOC for cervical cancer detection showed reliable accuracy (91% sensitivity, 85% specificity, and 89% accuracy). Conclusion: Our results demonstrated the applicability of VOC sensing for cervical cancer detection and its potential application in treatment monitoring.