Rethinking the Risk: Evaluation of The Malignant Potential of Non-16 and 18 HPV Types via Colposcopic Results

INTRODUCTION: The malignancy risks of high-risk HPV types like 16 and 18 are well-known. The oncogenic potential of other HPV types, however, remains unclear. This study reevaluates malignancy risks across HPV types, stressing comprehensive colposcopic evaluations in cervical cancer screening.
METHODS: Conducted at a tertiary care center (January 2021 - July 2023), this retrospective study included 138 women divided into two groups: those infected with HPV 16/18 and those with other HPV types. We analyzed and compared colposcopic and histopathological outcomes, correlating colposcopic results with biopsy outcomes to assess cervical neoplasia.
RESULTS: Significant differences were noted between groups. While HPV 16 and 18 are linked to higher cervical neoplasia incidences, non-16/18 HPV types were also frequently associated with smear abnormalities. The average age of first sexual intercourse was 20.49 ± 4.2 years. Forty-nine percent of the women were smokers, 8% had only primary school education, and 78% were homemakers. High rates of known risk factors like low educational and socioeconomic status, and smoking were also significant.
DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION: Our findings suggest that non-16/18 HPV types might have a higher malignancy potential than HPV 16-18, highlighting their importance in cervical cancer screenings and colposcopic evaluations. The study's small sample size limits its conclusions, pointing to the need for larger studies to refine cervical cancer screening strategies globally.