Seroconversion Following Anal and Genital HPV Infection in Men: The HIM Study

Area of Science:

• Immunology
• Virology
• Public Health

Background:

• Naturally acquired antibodies to human papillomavirus (HPV) may impact infection susceptibility throughout life.
• Understanding seroconversion rates after natural HPV infection in men is crucial for assessing immune protection.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine seroconversion rates following genital, anal, and oral infections with HPV types 6, 11, 16, and 18 in men.
• To investigate variations in seroconversion based on HPV type and anatomical site of infection.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of serum samples from men in the HPV Infection in Men (HIM) Study who were initially seronegative for HPV 6/11/16/18.
• Measurement of HPV 6/11/16/18 antibodies using ELISA up to 36 months post-infection.
• Assessment of time to seroconversion stratified by HPV type and anatomical site.

Main Results:

• Seroconversion rates varied significantly by anatomical site: 6.3% for anal, 18.9% for genital, and 0.0% for oral HPV infections.
• HPV type 6 showed the highest seroconversion rate (19.3%) across all sites.
• The highest seroconversion rate (69.2%) was observed following anal HPV 6 infection.
• Persistent HPV infection was the sole predictor of seroconversion.

Conclusions:

• Low seroconversion rates post-infection suggest men remain vulnerable to recurrent HPV infections.
• Recurrent HPV infections can potentially progress to HPV-related cancers.
• HPV vaccination in men is recommended to establish robust immune protection against HPV and associated diseases.