Related Experiment Video
Updated: Sep 10, 2025

Collection, Isolation, and Flow Cytometric Analysis of Human Endocervical Samples
Published on: July 6, 2014
Schistosome Infection is Associated With High-Risk Human Papillomavirus Persistence, Together With Altered
Crispin Mukerebe1,2, Alexandra A Cordeiro3, Christine Aristide3
1Mwanza Intervention Trials Unit/National Institute for Medical Research, Mwanza, Tanzania.
Abstract:
Schistosoma haematobium infection may impair female genital mucosal antiviral defense. We sought to determine whether women with S. haematobium infection had higher odds of high-risk human papillomavirus (HR-HPV) persistence, a prerequisite to cervical cancer. We also examined cervicovaginal dysbiosis, which has been linked to HR-HPV persistence and schistosome infection. In 96 Tanzanian women with baseline and 9- to 12-month follow-up samples, we performed HPV genotyping, schistosome antigen quantification, and 16S rRNA sequencing. Both S. haematobium (odds ratio: 4.7 [1.3-16.5], P = .017) and Gardnerella-dominant microbiome (P = .049) were associated with HR-HPV persistence, suggesting these factors may contribute to high cervical cancer rates in Africa.
Related Concept Videos
Sexually Transmitted Infections
Fungal Phylum Microsporidia
Disorders of the Female Reproductive System
Bacterial Phylum Chlamydiae
Factors Affecting the Risk of Infection
The integrity and count of the white blood cells help the body resist pathogens and fight infection. When impaired, it reduces the body's resistance to pathogens. The acidic pH levels of the gastrointestinal, genitourinary tracts, and skin...

