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Published on: March 11, 2014
Human papillomavirus DNA in LEEP plume
A K Sood1, Z Bahrani-Mostafavi, J Stoerker
1Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology University of Florida College of Medicine P.O. Box 100294 Gainesville, FL 32610-0294, USA.
Infectious Diseases in Obstetrics and Gynecology
|January 1, 1994
Summary
Human papillomavirus (HPV) was detected in 37% of surgical smoke plumes from loop electrosurgical excision procedures (LEEP) for cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN). This finding suggests a need for enhanced safety measures during LEEP procedures.
Area of Science:
- Gynecology
- Oncology
- Virology
Background:
- Cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) is a precancerous condition of the cervix.
- Loop electrosurgical excision procedure (LEEP) is a common treatment for CIN.
- Surgical smoke plumes generated during LEEP may contain infectious agents.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of human papillomavirus (HPV) in surgical smoke plumes from LEEP procedures.
- To assess the potential risk of HPV transmission during LEEP.
Main Methods:
- 49 patients with CIN undergoing LEEP were included.
- Smoke plumes were collected using filters in suction tubing.
- HPV DNA was detected using polymerase chain reaction (PCR).
Main Results:
- HPV was detected in 37% of the collected filters.
- HPV was present in 80% of the cervical tissue samples.
- Common HPV types 6/11 and 16/18 were identified.
Conclusions:
- HPV DNA can be present in LEEP plumes.
- The risk of HPV transmission via plumes is currently unknown.
- Stringent control procedures are recommended during LEEP procedures.
