Characteristics of HPV infection in women at risk in Western Algeria.

OBJECTIVES

We aimed to characterize HPV infections and cervical lesions in Western Algeria.

PATIENTS AND

METHODS

A total of 96 cervical samples obtained from women at risk of HPV infection (HIV-1-infected or presenting with a gynecological disease) were analyzed to characterize this infection and search for cytological abnormalities.

RESULTS

A total of 60% of women at risk had an HPV infection. The rate of high-risk HPV (HR-HPV) infection among these women was 84.5% and that of intraepithelial lesions was 29.3%. The frequency of HPV infection was significantly higher among HIV-1-infected patients. An association between the presence of HR-HPV and the polygamy of the partner was observed. An association between cytological abnormalities and the use of oral contraceptives was observed among HIV-1-infected women.

CONCLUSION

Given the high frequency of HPV infection in this at risk population, close monitoring and regular gynecological screening are essential.