Association between cervical schistosomiasis and cervical cancer. A report of 2 cases

HPV is now considered the most important risk factor for the development of cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) and cancer. Although CIN and cancer have been previously reported in association with cervical schistosomiasis, those reports failed to control for the potential coexistence of high-risk HPV.

Two women, 1 with high grade CIN and 1 with invasive cervical cancer, were negative for high-risk HPV subtypes. Evidence of cervical and systemic schistosomal infestation was evident in both cases.

In support of prior published studies, cervical schistosomiasis seems to be a possible risk factor for the development of CIN and cancer. As populations around the world migrate, North American colposcopists need to become aware of this association.