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Human papillomavirus anogenital screening in solid organ transplant recipients: a narrative review

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Abstract

Purpose

To provide a narrative review of anogenital screening for human papillomavirus in solid organ transplant recipients.

Methods

Keyword searches of PubMed and Ovid MEDLINE databases were performed. Keywords included human papillomavirus, malignancy, cervical cancer, Pap smear, solid organ transplant, and immunosuppression. Manual searches were also conducted of other relevant journals and reference lists of primary articles.

Results

Forty-one studies, articles, or clinical practice guidelines across 25 years of literature were included. Eligible literature was written in English or offered an English translation.

Conclusion

Human papillomavirus-related anogenital malignancies disproportionately affect transplant recipients compared to the general population. Evidence-based guidelines for cervical cancer screening and prevention in transplant patients are lacking. Current practice guidelines generally agree on increased Pap screening for transplant recipients compared to the general population. However, recommended screening frequency differs between organizations and amongst medical specialties. Vaccination against HPV remains the most effective strategy to prevent HPV-driven pre-malignant and malignant lesions.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. University of Rochester Medical Center, Internal Medicine, Rochester, NY, USA

    Christine Papastamelos

  2. University of Rochester Medical Center, Obstetrics and Gynecology, Rochester, NY, USA

    Mitchell Linder

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  1. Christine Papastamelos
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All the authors have seen and approved this manuscript as it is written and have contributed significantly to its work. CP was involved with conceptualization, project development, literature search, data collection, data management, and manuscript writing and editing. ML was active in manuscript writing and editing.

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Correspondence to Christine Papastamelos.

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Papastamelos, C., Linder, M. Human papillomavirus anogenital screening in solid organ transplant recipients: a narrative review. Arch Gynecol Obstet 307, 1277–1283 (2023). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00404-022-06577-2

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