Abnormal anal cytology in HIV-infected women.

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to assess the prevalence of and risk factors for abnormal anal cytology and human papillomavirus (HPV) infections in women who are human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) positive.

STUDY DESIGN

We conducted an observational single center study of 100 HIV-infected women with cervical and anal specimens that were obtained for cytologic and high-risk HPV testing with Hybrid Capture 2.

RESULTS

Seventeen women had abnormal anal cytology; 16 women had anal HPV; 21 women had abnormal cervical cytology, and 24 women had cervical HPV. Abnormal anal cytology was associated with cervical HPV infection, abnormal cervical cytology, and anal HPV infection in univariate analysis. In multivariate analysis, abnormal anal cytology was associated with a CD4 count <200 cells/mm(3), a history of sexually transmitted disease, and concurrent cervical cytologic abnormality.

CONCLUSION

HIV-infected women are at high risk for abnormal cytology and HPV infections of both the anus and cervix. Risk factors for abnormal anal cytology include abnormal cervical cytology, cervical and anal HPV infections, and low CD4 count.