International Papillomavirus Society policy statement on human papillomavirus-based cervical cancer screening for women living with HIV.

Abstract

Women living with HIV (WLWH) are among those at highest risk for cervical cancer development, thereby making this a key population for primary and secondary prevention. Human papillomavirus (HPV) nucleic acid (DNA or RNA) tests, which have been clinically validated, are supported by the World Health Organization (WHO) as the preferred method for cervical screening for all women, although HPV DNA is preferred in WLWH until further evidence demonstrates that HPV RNA is equivalent. We sought to describe current guidelines for HPV-based cervical cancer screening for WLWH. This paper outlines current recommendations and the state of knowledge regarding HPV-based cervical cancer screening for WLWH. Current recommendations and the state of knowledge have been subdivided into the following topics: cervical screening and triage; treatment; additional considerations; and challenges and opportunities. The International Papillomavirus Society supports the WHO recommendations regarding HPV-based screening for all women, including WLWH. As data to support best practices in WLWH are limited, we strongly encourage continued research into this important topic.