NATURAL HISTORY OF GENITAL HUMAN PAPILLOMAVIRUS IN RENAL TRANSPLANTS

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Genital human papillomavirus (HPV) infection is exceedingly common. This sexually transmitted disease may affect as many as 70% of all sexually active women at some time in their lives. Disease manifestations vary depending on the HPV type, the site of infection and host factors. HPV types 6 and 11 cause genital warts and low grade intraepithelial neoplasias. There is compelling evidence that types 16, 18 and 31 contribute to the development of high grade intraepithelial neoplasias and invasive anogenital cancers as part of the multistep process of carcinogenesis. The primary host defense against HPV appears to be cell mediated immunity. Conditions characterized by impairment of cellular immunity such as the iatrogenic immunosuppression of organ transplantation and human immunodeficiency virus infection are associated with an increase in the frequency and severity of genital warts and anogenital malignancies. In this study, we will establish the prevalence of genital HPV infection in a group of 60 women at the time they receive their renal allografts in the immediate preoperative period; and three groups of 30 women each who have had established allografts for: less than one year, one to five years, and greater than five years respectively. These cohorts will be followed at four month intervals for a year to determine incidence data. Patients will undergo routine pelvic examination including inspection of the external anogenital areas and speculum examination. A pap smear, cervical culture for chlamydia and HSV and cervical washings for HPV testing will be obtained. The polymerase chain reaction (PCR) will be used for detection of HPV and typing will be performed by standard techniques. In addition, patients will be asked to complete a sexual history at each visit. Immunosuppression data will be obtained from the patient's medical chart. Patients with external lesions will be treated with standard therapies. Patients with abnormal pap smears will be referred to the Department of OB/GYN for further evaluation and treatment. Data from this study will provide important insights into the natural history of genital HPV infection in a select immunocompromised population.