[Immunohistochemistry and in situ hybridization techniques in the study of 75 patients with HPV-induced lesions of the genitalia].

Seventy-five patients with anogenital warts were biopsied in the Center for Sexually Transmitted Disease of Galliera Hospital (Genoa). Bioptic specimens were processed for histologic examination, immunohistochemistry using polyclonal antibodies against HPV capsid common antigens and in situ hybridization using HPV 6/11, 16/18, 31/35/51 DNA probes. The aim of the study was to detect patients positive for HPV 16/18, 31/35/51 DNA probes. These HPV types have a higher oncogenic potential and patients with lesions harbouring them are considered to be at risk for progression to malignancy. These patients should be followed up carefully and periodically for early detection of new lesions and neoplastic transformation.