HPV Infection and Prevention in Patients With Immune-Mediated Inflammatory Diseases: A Scoping Review.

Abstract

Background/historical perspective: Human papillomavirus (HPV) infections are a significant public health concern as they cause various cancers, including those of the cervix, vulva, vagina, anus, penis, and oropharynx, in both women and men.

Summary integrating the current published literature: Individuals with immune-mediated inflammatory diseases, particularly systemic lupus erythematosus, have an increased risk of developing persistent HPV infection and subsequent precancerous lesions due to their immunosuppression.

Major conclusions: Vaccination and screening for precancerous lesions are 2 central management strategies that must be implemented in patients with immune-mediated inflammatory diseases. Although HPV vaccination has been proven to be safe and effective in these patients, coverage remains low and should be encouraged. Screening for cervical cancer should be more widely implemented in this population, as recommended in guidelines for other immunosuppressed patients.

Future research directions: Catch-up vaccination, vaginal self-sampling screening for HPV detection, and therapeutic vaccination are new options that should be considered.