Assessment of Prevalence and Persistence of Human Papillomavirus (HPV) DNA in HIV-Infected Women Who Are Antiretroviral Naive and Have Initiated HAART

HIV infection is a significant risk factor for human HPV infection and the development of HPV-associated lesions in the female genital tract. Findings suggest that HIV infection and/or HIV-related immunosuppression increases a woman's susceptibility to HPV infection or alters the natural history of preexisting HPV infection. Treatment with HAART has been shown to result in significant increases in CD4+ cell counts and "partial reconstitution" of the immune system. It is not known whether treatment of HIV infection with potent antiretroviral regimens could affect the persistence of HPV infection and progression of cervical dysplasia. This study is important for HIV-infected women because of the implications for gynecologic management and determination of cervical disease risk.

At baseline, Weeks 24 and 48, and then every 48 weeks until study completion, women undergo pelvic examination and cervical specimens collection by the following methods: 1) Sno-strip; 2) cervicovaginal lavage; 3) cervical brush method; and 4) Pap smear. A colposcopy is required for any woman who has an abnormal Pap smear reading unless the abnormal Pap smear is thought to be due to an intercurrent infection. A cervical biopsy is strongly recommended in the event of an abnormal colposcopy. Blood is collected for HPV antibody testing, viral load, and CD4 measures.