Anal human papillomavirus infection: a comparative study of cytology, colposcopy and DNA hybridisation as methods of detection.

Abstract

Considering surgical out-patient attenders with no history or signs of anal warts, 25% showed cytological evidence ofanal HPV infec-

The Role of Cytology and HPV Typing as a Screening Tool in Patients With Intraanal Warts

“…According to other investigators, Haye et al 22 and Frazer et al 23 cytology presents a sensitivity of 42% and 70%, respectively. However, in recent studies of Sonnex, 24 Fox et al, 25 and Goldstone et al 26 the sensitivity of cytology has been found to range between 83% to 98%, consistent to our results. It should be emphasized that in those later studies reporting high sensitivity rates, a different study design was followed, as HIV-positive patients and specimens with HGSIL cytology (hence more typical and obvious cellular changes) were also included.…”

Anal Cytology in an HIV-Positive Population

“…This could be due to airdrying artifact, which is common, or to the fact that koilocytosis appears less commonly in anal mucosal lesions than in their cervical counterparts. [12][13][14] Liquidbased preparations virtually eliminate all air drying and enhance koilocytotic changes. 17 Another positive aspect of anal cytology is the relative ease with which specimens are obtained.…”

“…Several smaller studies have demonstrated that preinvasive lesions can be detected by cytology, and theoretical models of cost-effectiveness have also been published. [12][13][14] The use of anal smears from the area below the dentate line is recommended in patients at increased risk, such as HIV-positive people and women with genital tract squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). 15 If anal cytology is to gain acceptance, parameters of specimen adequacy will need to be defined and validated.…”

Human papillomavirus infection with particular reference to genital disease

“…Koilocytosis is less often seen at sites other than the cervix and in these cases the specificity of cytology is less well defined. 54 Presence of HPV DNA The polymerase chain reaction will frequently detect the presence of HPV DNA in clinical specimens which are normal on macroscopic and microscopic examination. This is often termed "latent" infection, although it is also appropriately classified as a subdivision of subclinical infection.…”