Human papillomavirus--related diseases in the female patient.

Human papillomavirus (HPV) has been strongly associated with malignancy in the female lower genital tract. Because squamous-cell carcinoma of the cervix is preceded by a spectrum of easily detectable and treatable premalignant changes, it is very preventable. The management of the patient with an abnormal Papanicolaou smear and the treatment of cervical, vaginal, and vulvar disease are outlined.