Infection to Malignancy: the Role of Hpv Dna Pcr In Targeted Screening Strategies

Abstract

Background: Human papillomavirus (HPV) ranks as the most prevalent sexually transmitted infection globally. Cervical cancers and anogenital cancers are the major public health concerns heavily associated with HPV infections like HPV-16 and 18. Early detection of HPV is very essential particularly in high-risk individuals like men who have sex with men (MSM), transgender population and female sex workers (FSW) allows the clinicians to initiate prompt management.

Materials and Methods: This was a cross-sectional, observational study done in a 200 high-risk individuals in a tertiary care setting. Endocervical, urethral, and rectal swab specimens were collected from them and were screened for the presence of HPV 16 and 18 using HPV DNA qualitative PCR test.

Results: Among the 200 specimens collected, 60 samples were taken from men who have sex with men, 26 samples from transgender populations and 114 samples from female sex workers. The overall prevalence of HPV-16 and 18 was 2.0% (4/200). HPV 16-only infections occurred in 1.0% (2/200), HPV 18-only in 0.5% (1/200), and co-infection in 0.5% (1/200).

Conclusion: This study supports the implementation of HPV DNA qualitative PCR test as a targeted screening tool for high-risk individuals. This approach can assist clinicians in identifying and monitoring individuals early to effectively manage precancerous lesions.