Decreased CD8+ T Lymphocytes is an Independent Influencing Factor for Persistent HR-HPV Infection.

Area of Science:

• Gynecology
• Immunology
• Microbiology

Background:

• High-risk human papillomavirus (HR-HPV) infection is a primary cause of cervical lesions.
• Understanding factors contributing to persistent HR-HPV infection is crucial for effective prevention and treatment strategies.
• Vaginal microecology and immune status may play significant roles in HR-HPV persistence.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate vaginal microecological alterations in patients with HR-HPV infection.
• To analyze peripheral blood immune cell subset levels in relation to HR-HPV status.
• To identify independent risk factors for persistent HR-HPV infection.

Main Methods:

• A single-center observational study included 165 participants (49 persistent HR-HPV, 116 transient HR-HPV).
• Vaginal microecological indicators (cleanliness, pH, bacterial vaginosis score, hydrogen peroxide, sialidase) were assessed.
• Peripheral blood immune cell subsets (CD4+, CD8+ T lymphocytes, B lymphocytes, NK cells) were quantified.

Main Results:

• Persistent HR-HPV infection was associated with vaginal microecological imbalance (lower cleanliness, higher BV score, altered pH, increased hydrogen peroxide and sialidase).
• Decreased percentages of CD4+ and CD8+ T lymphocytes were observed in the persistent infection group.
• Multivariate analysis identified decreased CD8+ T lymphocytes as an independent risk factor for persistent HR-HPV infection.

Conclusions:

• Persistent HR-HPV infection is linked to vaginal microecological imbalance and impaired cellular immunity.
• Reduced CD8+ T lymphocyte levels are independently associated with persistent HR-HPV infection.
• Assessing vaginal microecology and CD8+ T cells may help identify high-risk populations for cervical lesions.