Prevalence of Human Papillomavirus Infection in Women with Negative Cytology

Abstract

Introduction: Persistent infection with the oncogenic subtypes of human papillomavirus is the leading cause of cervical cancer. Women with normal cytology may be infected with subtypes of high carcinogenic risk.
Objective: Provide updated information on the prevalence of human papillomavirus infection worldwide and the importance of their early detection in women with negative cytology.
Methods: A review of the studies developed at a global level was carried out and PubMed, MedLine, BioMed Central, and SciELO databases were used.
Results: The prevalence of infection with high - risk subtypes of human papillomavirus in women with normal cytology was 10 - 12%, with some differences between countries. The highest peak of frequency of this viral infection was located in young women under 25 years old and, in some geographic regions a second peak could be observed in those older than 49 years. The five most frequent oncogenic subtypes of these viruses were 16, 18, 31, 52 and 58 with certain variations globally.
Conclusions: Early diagnosis of human papillomavirus infection, especially high-risk genotypes, is an important factor for better prevention of cervical-uterine cancer.