Human papillomavirus as expressed in cervical neoplasia: evolving diagnostic and treatment modalities

Cervical carcinoma, a common form of cancer among women worldwide, is directly linked with human papillomavirus (HPV) infection. It is estimated that 20-30 million Americans have been infected with HPV, yet many women and health care providers have little knowledge of the etiology, diagnosis, and treatment of this infection. Only 30% of HPV infections are overt, recognized by women as genital warts. Subclinical infection accounts for 70% of HPV infections and, because it may cause cervical cancer, represents a major health problem for women. Dramatic advances in the diagnosis and treatment of HPV genital infection have occurred in the past decade. The epidemiology and risk factors, along with the efficacy, side effects, and cost-effectiveness of different diagnostic and treatment methods are discussed.