Genotypes distribution of human papillomavirus in cervical samples of Ecuadorian women

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is considered a necessary causative agent for developing oropharyngeal, anal and cervical cancer. Among women in Ecuadorian population, cervical cancer ranks as the second most common gynecological cancer. Not many studies about HPV burden have been published in Ecuador, and genotypes distribution has not been established yet. The little data available suggest the presence of other genotypes different than 16 and 18.

In the present study, we attempt to estimate the prevalence of HPV 16, HPV 18 and other 35 genotypes among Ecuadorian women undergoing cervical cancer screening. The overall prevalence of HPV infection was also estimated.

Routine cervical samples were analyzed using Linear Array(r) HPV Genotyping test (Roche).

A total of 1,581 cervical samples obtained from Ecuadorian women undergoing cervical cancer screening were included in this study. HPV DNA was detected in 689 cervical samples (43.58%). Of these samples, 604 (38.20%) were positive for a single HPV genotype, while another 85 (5.37%) samples were positive for multiple HPV types. Genotype 16 (5.50%) resulted in the most frequently detected type in both single and multiple infections. HPV 33 (4.55%) and HPV 11 (3.80%) occupied the second and the third place in frequency among all detected genotypes.

Viral genotypes different from HPV 16 and HPV 18 are frequently detected among Ecuadorian women. The overall prevalence of HPV resulted higher than the one reported in other South American countries with a greater burden in the second and third decades of life.