Human papillomavirus and cervical cytology in adolescents.

Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection is highly prevalent in adolescent girls and young women and may be associated with substantial morbidity and mortality. HPV infection may lead to condylomata (genital warts), cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN), and cervical cancer. Recent research focused on the virology, natural history, and sequelae of HPV infection has led to evidence-based revisions of the system for classification of cervical cytology results, recommendations for cytologic screening, and guidelines for management of CIN. Vaccines to prevent HPV infection and its sequelae are under investigation.