Papillomavirus Infection Research Articles

Antiviral properties of essential oil mixture: Modulation of E7 and E2 protein pathways in human papillomavirus (HPV) infection.

Clove is used in Indian and Chinese traditional medicine for viral diseases. Palmarosa essential oils have been traditionally used in India and Southeast Asia since ancient times and have made considerable use of them. In New Caledonia, niaouli oil is used in aromatherapy and pharmaceutical formulations to treat pain and viral diseases. Since ancient times, the South Pacific region has used tamanu oil as a traditional medicine to treat a wide range of skin conditions. This study investigates the antiviral properties of essential oils (EOs) from Eugenia aromaticum (clove oil, CL-R030424005 (CL)), Cymbopogon martinii (palmarosa oil, PA-R040923008 (PA)), Melaleuca viridiflora (niaouli oil, NI-R290124038 (NI)), and Calophyllum inophyllum (tamanu oil, TA-F140224029 (TA)), and their mixture against human papillomavirus (HPV) infection. A D-optimal mixture design is used to determine the most effective EO combinations and evaluate their antiviral efficacy through IC50 values. The EOs were tested for their ability to inhibit HPV-related oncogenes (L1, L2, E1, E2, E6, and E7) in HPV-infected cells with ELISA, qPCR, and Western blot analyses. The optimal mixture (31.5% CL, 31.5% PA, and 37% NI) demonstrated significant antiviral activity, reducing viral replication and protein expression in HPV-infected cells. Ex-vivo permeation studies showed higher permeation rates in healthy tissues compared to infected ones, indicating the oils' potential in targeted drug delivery. Additionally, cytotoxicity assessments confirmed the safety of the EOs at effective concentrations in HPVCs, DoTc2, and HEKa cells. Molecular docking studies further elucidated the interactions between EO components and HPV proteins, supporting their antiviral mechanisms. These findings suggest that EOs, particularly in optimized combinations, offer a promising natural supportive treatment for managing HPV infections, warranting further in vivo animal tests and clinical trials.

Research Status of Clustered Regulary Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats Technology in the Treatment of Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Infection Related Diseases.

Background: CRISPR/Cas9 technology has rapidly advanced as a pivotal tool in cancer research, particularly in the precision targeting required for both detecting and treating malignancies. Its high specificity and low off-target effects make it exceptionally effective in applications involving Human Papillomavirus (HPV) related diseases, most notably cervical cancer. This approach offers a refined methodology for the rapid detection of viral infections and provides a robust platform for the safe and effective treatment of diseases associated with viral infections through gene therapy.Purpose: Gene therapy, within this context, involves the strategic delivery of genetic material into target cells via a vector. This is followed by the meticulous modulation of gene expression, whether through correction, addition, or suppression, specifically honed to target tumor cells while sparing healthy cells. This dual capacity to diagnose and treat at such a precise level underscores the transformative potential of CRISPR/Cas9 in contemporary medical science, particularly in oncology and virology.Research Design: This article provides an overview of the advancements made in utilizing the CRISPR-Cas9 system as a research tool for HPV-related treatments while summarizing its application status in basic research, diagnosis, and treatment of HPV.Data Collection: Furthermore, it discusses the future prospects for this technology within emerging areas of HPV research and precision medicine in clinical practice, while highlighting technical challenges and potential directions for future development.

Methylation of SOX1 and PAX1 Are Risk Factors and Potential Biomarkers for Cervical Lesions.

The correlation between methylation of paired box gene 1 (PAX1) and sex determining region Y-box 1 (SOX1) with human papillomavirus (HPV) infection and the progression of cervical lesions is not well understood. This study aims to explore the potential value of PAX1 and SOX1 as diagnostic biomarkers for cervical diseases. A total of 139 cervical biopsy tissue samples were obtained from the Department of Pathology, the Seventh Medical Center, Chinese PLA General Hospital from 2021 to 2023. The samples include 32 cases of chronic cervicitis (inflammation group), 30 cases of low-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions (LSIL group), 50 cases of high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions (HSIL group), and 27 cases of cervical squamous cell carcinoma (CSCC group). DNA was extracted from paraffin-embedded tissues, and the levels of HPV infection and methylation of PAX1 and SOX1 were detected. The methylation index (M-index) of PAX1 and SOX1 in the HSIL and CSCC groups is significantly higher than in the inflammation group (both P < 0.0001), with no significant difference between the LSIL and inflammation groups. There is no significant difference in the positive PAX1 and SOX1 methylation rate with HPV infection and age. The positive rates of PAX1 methylation in the inflammation, LSIL, HSIL, and CSCC groups were 3.13%, 10.00%, 44.00%, and 88.89%, respectively. The positive rates of SOX1 methylation were 3.13%, 10.00%, 40.00%, and 77.78%, respectively, and increasing with the progression of cervical lesions (R2 = 0.9189/R2 = 0.9279, P < 0.0001/P < 0.0001). Comparing LSIL, HSIL, and CSCC with the inflammation group and using cervical biopsy pathology diagnosis as the gold standard, methylation of PAX1 and SOX1 is a risk factor for HSIL and CSCC, with odds ratio (OR) values significantly increasing as lesions progress. The sensitivity of PAX1 and SOX1 methylation to cervical lesions increases with the progression of the lesions. Methylation of SOX1 and PAX1 is not associated with HPV infection. The positive rate of methylation for SOX1 and PAX1 is positively correlated with cervical lesions, which can serve as potential biomarkers for HSIL and CSCC. They are risk factors and potential screening indicators for HSIL and above cervical lesions.

Clinical characteristics and risk factors to high-grade vaginal intraepithelial neoplasia: a single-institution study

BackgroundTo date, few studies have investigated the factors associated with high-grade vaginal intraepithelial neoplasia (VaIN). This study aimed to analyze the characteristics of high‐grade VaIN and identify its underlying risk factors.MethodsThis cross-sectional study included women with histologically confirmed high-grade VaIN and high‐grade cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN), conducted between 2017 and 2021 at a single center. Baseline clinical characteristics, human papillomavirus (HPV) infection status, cytology results, and pathology findings were analyzed using standard statistical methods.ResultsAmong 1819 patients, 8.47% (154/1819) were diagnosed with high-grade VaIN (mean age: 42.1 ± 12.4 years), while 91.53% (1665/1819) had high‐grade CIN (mean age: 36.7 ± 10.0 years). Older age, longer sexual life duration, higher gravidity and parity, menopause, and prior cervical treatment were identified as risk factors for high‐grade VaIN (p < 0.001). High‐grade VaIN was more likely to present with low-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (LSIL) cytology among abnormal cytological results (p = 0.007). HPV was detected in 98.1% of VaIN2/3 cases (151/154), with HPV 16 being the most prevalent genotype, accounting for 39.89% (705/1767) of all infections, 36.4% of high‐grade VaIN, and 39% of high‐grade CIN cases. Single-genotype HPV infections were observed in 58.4% of high‐grade VaIN and 64.3% of high‐grade CIN, while multiple infections were found in 39.6% and 32.8%, respectively. The sensitivities of cytology for detecting high‐grade VaIN and high‐grade CIN were 62.3% and 69.5%, respectively (p = 0.067). HPV testing sensitivities were 98.4% and 97.1%, respectively (p = 0.578). Combined cytology and HPV testing improved sensitivities to 100% and 99.8%, respectively.ConclusionsHigh-grade VaIN is significantly associated with older age. The sensitivity of cytology and HPV testing for detecting high‐grade VaIN is comparable to that for high‐grade CIN. Thus, these tests may facilitate early detection of high‐grade VaIN.

From infection to immortality: The role of HPV and telomerase in head and neck cancer.

Head and neck squamous cell carcinomas (HNSCCs) represent a heterogeneous group of malignancies with multifactorial aetiologies. High-risk human papillomavirus (hrHPV) infections, particularly HPV16, and the dysregulation of telomerase activity, specifically through its catalytic subunit, telomerase reverse transcriptase (TERT) are among the key contributors to HNSCC development and progression. HPV promotes oncogenesis via the E6 and E7 oncoproteins, which inactivate tumour suppressors TP53 and RB1, leading to unchecked cellular proliferation. Concurrently, telomerase activation plays a critical role in HNSCC by maintaining telomere length, thus enabling cellular immortality, and facilitating tumour development and progression. The interplay between HPV and telomerase is significant; HPV oncoprotein E6 enhances telomerase activity through multiple regulatory mechanisms, including upregulating TERT expression. Beyond telomere maintenance, TERT influences signalling pathways, cellular metabolism, and the tumour microenvironment, contributing to aggressive tumour behaviour and poor prognosis. This review integrates the roles of HPV and telomerase in HNSCC, focusing on their molecular mechanisms and interactions that drive carcinogenesis and influence disease progression. Understanding the synergistic effects of HPV and TERT in HNSCC may be crucial for risk stratification, prognostic assessment, and the development of novel therapeutic strategies targeting these specific molecular pathways.

A Computational Framework Analysis of Public Attitudes Toward Male Human Papillomavirus Infection and Its Vaccination in China: Based on Weibo Data

A Computational Framework Analysis of Public Attitudes Toward Male Human Papillomavirus Infection and Its Vaccination in China: Based on Weibo Data

Features of the clinical course of endometriosis in papillomavirus infection

Background: To date, the etiology and pathogenesis of endometriosis are still unclear and are determined by a number of factors (genetic, immunological and endocrine), including microbiological ones. Aim: The aim of this study was to characterize the clinical course of endometriosis in papillomavirus infection. Materials and methods: This retrospective analysis included 185 outpatient records of patients with genital endometriosis and comprised complaints, anamnesis data, objective examination, cytological and molecular biological examination results. All patients were divided into two study groups. Group 1 (main) consisted of patients with endometriosis and human papillomavirus (n = 56), and group 2 (comparison) included patients with endometriosis and no human papillomavirus (n = 129). Results: The frequency of human papillomavirus detection among patients with endometriosis was 30.3 (95% confidence interval 24–38)%. The most frequent types detected were 31 (20%), 16 (18%), 18 (18%), 56 (16%), and 53 (13%). The conclusion of cervical cytological examination: in group 1 was the following 54/56 patients had negative for intraepithelial lesion or malignancy (NILM) and 2/56 patients had low grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (LSIL), all patients in group 2 had NILM. The average duration of endometriosis was 8.2 ± 5.0 years for patients in group 1 and 9.4 ± 5.9 years for patients in group 2 (p = 0.15). We found differences between the study groups with respect to the following parameters: the average age of sexual debut was 17.82 ± 1.47 years and 18.53 ± 1.43 years for groups 1 and 2, respectively. Dyspareunia occurred in 77 (95% confidence interval 63–87)% of women in Groups 1 and in 42 (95% confidence interval 33–51)% in groups 2 (p 0.001). The average pain severity score according to the visual analogue scale was 6.7 ± 2.4 and 5.9 ± 2.8 points, respectively (p = 0.039). In group 1, impaired vaginal microbiocenosis was more common. Conclusions: Human papillomavirus was detected in every third woman with endometriosis, most often in genotypes of high carcinogenic risk. Among the features of the clinical course of endometriosis in the presence of human papillomavirus, more pronounced pain syndrome and symptoms of dyspareunia were noted. In the group of women with human papillomavirus, impaired vaginal microbiocenosis was more often observed.

P-34. Patients’ Survey of Human Papilloma Virus Vaccination among Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Patients in Japan after Suspension of Proactive Recommendation

Abstract Background Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients are known to have a high incidence of cervical cancer. The main reason for this is considered to reflect the high rate of Human papilloma virus (HPV) infection and inadequate HPV clearance due to immunosuppressive status. Japan has been facing a problem of low HPV vaccination rates due to the suspension of proactive recommendations for routine HPV vaccination for more than eight years because of the negative media campaign. The objective of this study is to identify the factors that inhibit HPV vaccination among SLE patients to develop strategies for improving HPV vaccination rate. Figure Sources of medical information for HPV vaccinated and unvaccinated participants. We asked which informational tools participants use to gather medical information. The most trusted sources are indicated by dark bars; others are indicated by light bars. * indicates significant differences between HPV vaccinated and unvaccinated participants (p&amp;lt;0.05, chi-square test). (a): Answers by HPV vaccinated participants. (b): Answers by HPV unvaccinated participants. HPV, Human papilloma virus; SNS, Social networking service; TV, Television Methods We conducted a questionnaire survey of female SLE patients aged 18-45 years attending our hospital to analyze factors related to HPV vaccination. Results We obtained responses of 83 participants. Only 5 (6.0%) were received HPV vaccination, 15 (18.1%) were uncertain of their vaccine history, and 27 (32.5%) had never even heard of HPV vaccination. The reasons for unvaccinated against HPV were "don't know" with 24 participants, "missed opportunity" with 15, and "troublesome, somehow" with 8. The most trusted source of medical information for the unvaccinated was their physician (47, 60.3%) (Figure). Among the unvaccinated, those who wished to be vaccinated in the future were positively correlated with “trust of vaccine benefit” (r=0.515. p=0.014) and “accurate knowledge about HPV vaccine” (r=0.614, p=0.002), and negatively correlated with “negative attitudes toward vaccination and vaccine policy” (r=-0.562, p=0.007). Conclusion HPV vaccination rate among SLE patients in Japan was extremely low. The main reason was lack of knowledge. The most effective solution is considered to provide accurate information and adequate recommendations of HPV vaccination by attending physicians. Disclosures Yoshiaki Gu, MD, PhD, MPH, MSD K.K.: Grant/Research Support

P-1390. Anorectal Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Infection in HIV-Positive Men who have Sex with Men (MSM) in Nicaragua

Abstract Background HIV-positive men who have sex with men (MSM) are at increased risk for sexually transmitted infections, including anorectal HPV, with the consequent likelihood of neoplasia at that level. There is a complete lack of information on this situation in Nicaragua. This study explores and establishes for the first time the prevalence of anorectal HPV infection in HIV-positive MSM and its correlation with cytological abnormalities, and some associated behavioral, virological, and immunological factors in Nicaragua.Figure 1.Prevalence of HPV Anorectal Infection in MSM HIV Positive Diagnosed by RT-PCR Xpert HPV. Methods A prospective, multicenter cohort study was conducted between January 2023 at December 2023, at Dr. Fernando Vélez Paiz Hospital, Antonio Lenin Fonseca Hospital, and Manolo Morales Hospital in the city of Managua, Nicaragua. HIV-positive MSM patients were enrolled to the study with prior consent. Anorectal swab samples were processed by molecular method for HPV detection (GeneXpert HPV®) of different genotypes individually or grouped into genetic patterns (16, 18/45, P3: 31/32/35/52, P4: 51/59, and P5: 39/56/66/68). In addition, anorectal Pap smears were performed for cytopathology study. All samples were processed in the microbiology and pathology laboratories of the Dr. Fernando Vélez Paiz Hospital, the main center of the research.Figure 2.Different Genotypes Detected by Xpert HPV Anorectal Infection in MSM HIV Positive. Results A total of 44 patients were enrolled in the study. A significant proportion of patients declined to participate in the study. The mean age was 35.2 ± 12.4 years. Most of the patients reported having a passive or versatile sexual role. 22.7% were naïve to antiretroviral therapy (ART). The prevalence of anorectal HPV infection was 86.3% (Figure 1). The most frequent genotype was HPV 16 (21.7%) (Figure 2). In the combined genotype patterns, P3 (31/32/35/52) was observed in 40.5% of patients. All patients were infected with more than one genotype. 31.5% of those infected had cytological abnormalities, the most frequent being low-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (Table 1). HPV-positive patients were younger, had a higher viral load, and a lower CD4+ lymphocyte count (Table 2).Table 1.Abnormalities in Anal Papanicolau in MSM HIV-positive con HPV Infection Diagnosed by Xpert HPV. Conclusion The prevalence of anorectal HPV infection in this study is high, with serotype 16 being the most frequent. Almost a third of them have altered cytology, with low-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion being the most frequent finding.Table 2.Differences in Age, HIV Viral Load and Count of Lymphocyte CD4+ in MSM HIV-Positive with and wihtout HPV Infection Disclosures All Authors: No reported disclosures

HPV-51 or HPV-52 Infection Could Impair Sperm Quality in Infertile Patients: A Preliminary Study on Our Experience from North-Western Italy

Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections in all genders worldwide. Its association with male infertility is deeply investigated, although there are conflicting data on the role of the virus in the impairment of semen quality and reduced reproductive outcomes. In this study, we considered 335 semen samples of males (age: 37.63 ± 6.02 years) belonging to infertile couples who did not conceive a pregnancy after 12 months of unprotected intercourse. Residual semen samples, after routine sperm analysis, were used to amplify and type viral DNA. Positive or negative HPV semen samples were compared. In total, 42.51% (139/327) were positive for at least one HPV genotype, and in 54.68% (76/139), positivity was due to a high-risk (HR) genotype. The most prevalent was HPV-16 (16.55%) followed by HPV-52 (10.07%) and HPV-51 (7.91%). Overall, no significant differences emerged in terms of sperm concentration, sperm motility, and morphology between the two groups. However, a considerable reduction in sperm motility was found in the presence of HPV-51 or HPV-52. These data point to the importance of HPV screening in semen analysis to evaluate patients that might have a higher risk of infertility according to the type of HPV genotype.

Knowledge and attitudes about human papillomavirus infection and prevention methods among medical science students in Novi Sad, Serbia: a cross-sectional study

BackgroundIt is estimated that more than 80% of people are infected with human papilloma virus (HPV) at some point in their lives. Knowledge about HPV infection and methods of its prevention is important for society as a whole. Medical students as future healthcare workers must be thoroughly informed about HPV infection in order to properly participate in the promotion of its prevention. The aim was to examine the knowledge and attitudes in relation to previous education about HPV infection and prevention methods.MethodsA cross-sectional study was conducted among undergraduate students at the Faculty of Medicine in Novi Sad (MFNS). The study covered all study programs and was conducted in the period from 1 to 30 November 2023, using a specially created survey questionnaire for the purposes of this research.Results1760 surveys were collected, representing 70.4% of the total number of MFNS students. In the past year, only 26% of respondents attended some kind of education about HPV infection/vaccine. Statistical significance was observed in the difference between the responses of students who attended education in comparison to those who did not attend education in the past year (75.5% versus 63.3%, p < 0.001). Students who stated that they plan to get vaccinated in the following period answered the questions correctly in a higher percentage (87.5% versus 80.1%, p = 0.01).ConclusionsStudents of the Faculty of Medicine in Novi Sad, as future healthcare workers, demonstrated certain knowledge and demonstrated right attitudes. Students who attended education about HPV infection and methods of prevention had more correct answers, as did students who plan to get vaccinated in the future.

Performance analysis of Leica Biosystems p16 monoclonal antibody in oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma

BackgroundHead and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is the sixth leading cause of cancer death globally, with newly diagnosed oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OPSCC) cases rising to 54,000 in the US alone in the year 2022. Recently, human papilloma virus (HPV) infection was more prevalent in OPSCC patients than the traditionally known carcinogens such as tobacco or alcohol. HPV 16 is the most common causative HPV strain, which is found in 5–10% of HNSCC patients. HPV 16’s E6 and E7 oncoproteins bind and inactivate p53 and retinoblastoma (Rb) tumor-suppressing genes. This causes aberrant over-expression of the cell cycle inhibitor gene, p16, leading to tumorigenesis. Leica Biosystems (LBS) has developed a p16 antibody (6H12 clone) for qualitatively identifying the p16 protein in formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) tissue by immunohistochemical staining. This method comparison study tested the concordance rates between ready-to-use (RTU) LBS p16/LBS RTU p16 antibody and Roche Tissue Diagnostics (RTD) CINtec p16 Histology immunohistochemical (IHC) assays by measuring overall agreement (OA), average positive agreement (APA), and average negative agreement (ANA) rates in 170 OPSCC FFPE cases. Interobserver agreement of the 2 assays and LBS RTU p16 comparison with the standard HPV molecular assays (DNA ISH and PCR) were also assessed.MethodsOne hundred and seventy (170) unique oropharyngeal cancer cases were stained for qualitative analysis by the LBS p16 antibody on BOND III. This assay was compared to Ventana’s RTD E6H4 (CINtec) clone on Benchmark XT. A stained core was considered p16 positive if the Histoscore (H score) was ≥ 140 and negative if H < 140.ResultsAcross the pathologists, the agreement rate between the 2 assays ranged from OA, 98.7 – 98.8%, ANA, 98.8 -98.9%, and APA, 98.6%. For LBS RTU p16, the interobserver agreement was OA, 98.7%, ANA, 98.8%, and APA, 98.6%; while for RTD CINtec p16 assay, the concordance was OA, 98.7%, ANA, 98.8% and APA, 98.6%. In comparison to the HPV molecular testing, DNA ISH, and PCR, across pathologists, LBS p16 clone (LBS RTU p16) showed a concordance rate of 85.8-86.9% and 87.6-88.8%, respectively.ConclusionLBS p16 monoclonal antibody demonstrated high concordance with CINtec p16 IHC assay across all the endpoints, suggesting a potential use of LBS RTU p16 clone in detecting p16 protein in oropharyngeal cancer cases.

Vvax001, a Therapeutic Vaccine for Patients with HPV16-positive High-grade Cervical Intraepithelial Neoplasia: a Phase II Trial.

Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection is the major cause of (pre)malignant cervical lesions. We previously demonstrated that Vvax001, a replication-incompetent Semliki Forest virus (SFV) vaccine encoding HPV type 16 (HPV16) E6 and E7, induced potent anti-E6 and -E7 cytotoxic T-cell responses. Here, we investigated the clinical efficacy of Vvax001 in patients with HPV16-positive cervical intraepithelial neoplasia grade 3 (CIN3). Patients with newly diagnosed HPV16-positive CIN3 were eligible for participation. Patients received 3 immunizations of Vvax001 (5x107 infectious particles) at a three-week interval. Up to 19 weeks after the last immunization patients were monitored for regression of CIN3 by colposcopy. A colposcopy-guided biopsy was taken at the last visit and a standard of care loop excision was performed only in case of remaining CIN2/3. Histopathologic response rates, HPV16 clearance, treatment-related adverse events (trAEs), and vaccine-induced immune responses were assessed. A total of 18 patients were enrolled and fully immunized. Colposcopic examination revealed a reduction in CIN3 lesion sizes in 17/18 patients (94%) already evident from 3 weeks onwards after the last immunization. A histopathological complete response (regression to CIN1 or no dysplasia) was observed in 9/18 patients (50%), and HPV16 clearance in 10/16 patients (63%). Vvax001 did not induce clearance of other HPV types. To date, no recurrences have been observed, with a median and longest disease-free survival of 20 and 30 months, respectively. No serious AEs were observed. Treatment with Vvax001 is safe, feasible, and shows preliminary clinical effectiveness in patients with HPV16-associated CIN3 lesions.

Anxiety as a stressor to treatment in women with Human Papillomavirus

Introduction: Sexually transmitted infections are a serious public health problem, such as Human Papillomavirus Infection, which has acquired a peculiar relevance due to its high incidence. Methodology: correlational, cross-sectional, 80 women were surveyed, the Trait-State Anxiety Inventory IDARE was used, prior informed consent, Pearson's r was applied. Results: Age 31.89 ± 7.9 years, 65% catholic, 53% married; 76% did not accept the treatment, of which 36% presented state anxiety and 39% presented trait anxiety; 24% accepted the treatment, of which 8% had state anxiety and 6% had trait anxiety. Discussion: It was observed that anxiety is not associated with the acceptance or rejection of treatment for Human Papillomavirus infection in the women in this sample. Conclusions: No statistical significance was found between state and trait anxiety with the acceptance or rejection of treatment for Human Papillomavirus infection in women (p&gt;.05).

Human Papillomavirus Infection and Cytological Atypia in Female Allogeneic Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation Recipients.

Female recipients of allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation are at high risk of developing human papillomavirus (HPV)-associated lesions and (pre)cancer. We describe the results of a cervical cancer screening program in these women. From 2010 to 2022, 70 female recipients of allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation in our institution entered a standardized protocol of gynecological evaluation. HPV testing, Papanicolaou smear, and thorough gynecological examinations were conducted in all the women. The cumulative prevalence of HPV infection was 21.4% (15/70). Ten of 70 women (14.3%) had a positive HPV test result in the first gynecological evaluation and 5 additional women (7.1%) became positive during follow-up. Thirteen women (18.5%) presented cytohistological lesions (3 high-grade lesions and 10 low-grade lesions). Twenty-nine women (41.4%) showed HPV-negative reactive atypical abnormalities related to the conditioning treatment, which closely mimicked HPV-associated lesions, which spontaneously disappeared during follow-up. Gynecological evaluation should be maintained over time, as a significant proportion of these women may become HPV positive during follow-up. Reactive benign, atypical changes related to the treatment, which closely mimic HPV-associated lesions, are a frequent finding in these women. HPV testing is a key tool for the evaluation of these patients, as it allows for identifying women at risk and excluding cytological mimickers.

Curdione combined with borneol treats bacterial mixed HPV infection by regulating the crosstalk among immune cells

BackgroundHuman papillomavirus (HPV) infection is a worldwide reproductive system disease. Baofukang suppository, a traditional herbal preparation that includes curdione and borneol, has been reported to treat bacterial vaginosis (BV) and HPV infection in China. However, the therapeutic mechanism is still unknown. This study aims to explore the molecular mechanisms of curdione and borneol in treating HPV infection.MethodsWe conducted a retrospective cohort analysis of medical records from a single-center study involving 205 HPV patients, focusing on the correlation between HPV clearance and co-infection with other pathogens, confirming the efficacy of Baofukang suppository. Bioinformatics and network pharmacology approaches were employed to identify therapeutic targets of Baofukang suppository for BV/HPV co-infections. qRT-PCR, Western blot, immunofluorescence staining, and flow cytometry were utilized to validate the therapeutic targets of curdione and borneol, along with the associated immune molecular changes. Finally, the molecular mechanisms and therapeutic efficacy of curdione and borneol were confirmed in vivo using an LPS/TC-1 cervical orthotopic injection model.ResultsCurdione and borneol selectively inhibit the secretion of interleukin-6 (IL-6) and interleukin-1β (IL-1β) by macrophages. The reduction in IL-6 and IL-1β levels effectively inhibits the expression of CD274 (Programmed death ligand 1, PD-L1) in infected epithelial cells by inhibiting STAT3 phosphorylation, thereby suppressing their immune evasion capabilities. Furthermore, curdione and borneol enhance the expression of tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α) and caspase 1 (CASP1) in macrophages, as well as the expression of interleukin 12 (IL-12) and interleukin 23 (IL-23) in dendritic cells (DCs). The expression of these inflammatory factors effectively promotes the migration and differentiation of T cells to the site of infection, completing the clearance of infected epithelial cells.ConclusionThe main components of Baofukang suppository, curdione and borneol, inhibit the progression of HPV infection and the occurrence of cervical cancer by modulating the communication between innate and adaptive immunity, promoting the recruitment and recognition of CD8+ T cells to eliminate HPV-infected epithelial cells.

First Report of HPV Genotyping and Distribution in People Living with and Without HIV from Iran and the Middle East.

In people living with human immune deficiency (PLHIV), the rates of human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, mixed types, and high-risk (HR) strains increase, while the virus clearance is prevented. Here, we report HPV genotyping in PLHIVs from Iran and the Middle East region for the first time. HPV genotyping in referring individuals from different provinces to our laboratory was evaluated over 2023-2024. For this, the HPV types in specimens were detected through the INNO- LiPA HPV genotyping kit. Statistical analysis was conducted with a 95% confidence interval (95%CI) and P < 0.05. Accordingly, 481 subjects from various provinces participated in this study. The rate of HPV infection was 45.7%, of which 14% were HIV-infected women referred from all provinces. The most prevalent types included 6, 51, and 18, but not 16 HR types. Mixed infections in dually infected women were significantly more than in HPV-infected ones. The HPV+/HIV+ subgroup had the lowest median age. The prevalence of HPV types and mixed infection in PLHIVs was congruent with the previous reports, except for the low rate of type 16 infection, perhaps due to the healthy nature of our subjects. Only HIV+/HPV+ cases' age was similar to the previous reports, perhaps because of sample collection and study designs. Among all factors, age and gender affected the HPV type distribution notably. The current study corroborated the results of many prior reports, demonstrating the considerable impact of HIV status on HPV distribution. The authors recommend implementing a national HPV vaccination and more comprehensive reports of HPV genotyping in PLHIVs.

P0564 Sexually Transmitted Infections Mimicking Inflammatory Bowel Diseases: Case Series of Infectious Proctitis

Abstract Background Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are increasingly recognized as causes of proctitis, particularly among men who have sex with men (MSM). These infections frequently mimic inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) in clinical, endoscopic, and histological presentations, leading to potential misdiagnosis and inappropriate treatments. Accurate recognition requires detailed sexual history and targeted diagnostic tests. Methods Patients were identified from IBD outpatient visits (2021–2023) and retrospectively selected for suspected infectious proctitis mimicking IBD. Diagnosis was confirmed via clinical evaluation, targeted tests (rectal swabs, PCR, serology), and histology. Follow-up continued for six months post-treatment. Results 1. A 42-year-old MSM with secondary syphilis treated with benzathine penicillin presented with bloody diarrhea, tenesmus, anorectal pain, and 10-kg weight loss. Mild anemia (Hb 12 g/dL) and elevated CRP were noted. Rectosigmoidoscopy (RSCS) revealed fibrinous ulcers causing luminal narrowing. Rectal swabs confirmed Chlamydia trachomatis. Treatment with doxycycline led to clinical and endoscopic resolution at six months. 2. A 33-year-old MSM with unprotected intercourse reported mucorrhea and tenesmus for one month. Calprotectin levels were elevated (861 µg/g). Colonoscopy revealed mild proctitis with mucosal hyperemia, and histology showed mild-to-moderate inflammation with crypt abscesses. Swabs confirmed Neisseria gonorrhoeae. Ceftriaxone resolved symptoms and normalized calprotectin (40 µg/g). 3. A 34-year-old male with primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) presented with two weeks of tenesmus, anal bleeding, and pruritus. Colonoscopy appeared macroscopically normal, but histology revealed human papillomavirus (HPV) infection. Anal canal condylomas were identified and successfully treated with cryotherapy, resulting in significant relief. Conclusion The rising prevalence of STI-related proctitis highlights the need for awareness among clinicians, as these infections often mimic IBD. Misdiagnosis can lead to inappropriate treatments, including steroids or biologics, causing adverse effects and delays in proper management. Detailed sexual history and targeted diagnostics, such as PCR and rectal swabs, are critical for accurate identification and effective treatment. These cases emphasize the critical role of integrating sexual history into clinical evaluation for proctitis. Awareness and timely recognition of STI-related proctitis are crucial to avoid misdiagnosis as IBD, ensure effective and targeted treatment, improve patient outcomes, and prevent inappropriate and prolonged follow-up. References -Infectious Proctitis: When to Suspect It Is Not InflammatoryBowel DiseaseFrank Hoentjen • David T. Rubin (Dig Dis Sci (2012) 57:269–273) -Proctitis: a glance beyond inflammatory bowel diseasesStefano Rizza et all Minerva Gastroenterol Dietol. 2020 Sep;66(3):252-266 -Proctitis in Men Who Have Sex with Men. Julia M. Steed et all

Epidemiological investigation and analysis of human papillomavirus infection and cataract development

Epidemiological investigation and analysis of human papillomavirus infection and cataract development

Clinical and diagnostic aspects of cervical ectopia associated with sexually transmitted infections in young unborn women

Relevance. The prevalence of cervical ectopia varies from 17 to 59%. Cervical ectopia is diagnosed in 54.2% young women under 25 years of age. It is most often diagnosed during preventive examinations. Cervical ectopia is considered a variant of the normal histophysiological condition of the cervix. At the same time, it has been proven that in ectopia, the cylindrical epithelium with its crypts is the main and ideal place for the introduction of sexually transmitted infections. The complicated course of ectopia against the background of the inflammatory process is observed in 67.7-71.2% cases, contributes to the disruption of epithelial proliferation processes and can lead to the development of dysplasia and cellular atypism.Aim. To analyze the literary sources devoted to cervical ectopia associated with sexually transmitted infections in young unborn women.Materials and methods. The literary review and analysis of publications on the topic in sources indexed in e-Library, Google Academy, Pubmed databases. The keywords to search were cervical ectopia, human papillomavirus, and pathology of the uterus. The inclusion criteria were the reports on randomized and cohort studies conducted on large populations, meta-analyses and systematic reviews, original full-text articles in English and Russian, which are publicly available and contain statistically confirmed conclusions. The exclusion criteria were summary reports, newspaper articles and personal messages. The result of the relevant search was 1,200 articles, and 32 articles were selected for final analysis.Results and discussion. The results showed that cervical ectopia associated with sexually transmitted infections, especially papillomavirus infection, occurs with high frequency among women of young reproductive age, which accordingly increases the risk of cervical cancer developing.Conclusion. Thus, cervical ectopia is common among young women and adolescents, and is almost always associated with sexually transmitted infections.