The histologic results in multiple-type HPV infections

To evaluate the rate, cytology and histopathological findings of multiple-type human papillomavirus (HPV) positive women referred to a tertiary colposcopy center. To compare the role of multiple- and single-type HPV infections in women with high-grade squamous intra epithelial lesion and cervical cancer (HSIL+).

The cytological and histopathological results of 2070 HPV positive women were evaluated. Infection with more than one type was defined as multiple-type HPV infection. Patients were divided into single or multiple HPV groups and subgroups in terms of HPV types; and also examined in three age groups. Age-stratified HSIL and cervical cancer rates of the study groups were compared.

The women with multiple HPV subtypes accounted for 24.9% of the study population. Multiple-type HPV infection rates in normal cytology, atypical glandular cells, low-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (LSIL), atypical squamous cells, cannot exclude HSIL and HSIL were 28.2%, 26.8%, 19.3%, 22.6%, and 21.8%, respectively. Age stratified multiple-type HPV infection rates in under 30 years, 30-49 years and ≥50 years were 27.8%, 24.1%, and 27.3%, respectively. The multiple-type HPV infection rates in LSIL, HSIL, and cancer patients were 31.4%, 19%, and 12.5%, respectively.

Multiple-type HPV infections were statistically less common in HSIL and cancer patients than single type HPV infection. However, multiple type infection rates were remarkable in older HSIL and cervical cancer patients.