Human papillomavirus genotypes and HPV-16 variants distribution among Tunisian women with normal cytology and squamous intraepithelial lesions.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Little is known about the epidemiological characteristics of papillomavirus (HPV) infection among North African countries. Herein, we conducted a molecular epidemiological study to investigate prevalence of HPV type and HPV-16 variants among cervical-screened unvaccinated Tunisian women.

Methods

Cross-sectional study was performed on 494 Tunisian women visiting Women's Healthcare Centers. HPV-DNA detection was carried out on cervical samples using real-time polymerase chain reaction. HPV genotyping and HPV-16 variants were characterized by direct sequencing of L1 viral capsid gene.

Results

The overall HPV prevalence was 34% (95% CI: 30-38%) with significantly higher prevalence among women with squamous intraepithelial lesions (SIL) than those with no

SUBMITTER: Ghedira R 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC5133751 | biostudies-literature | 2016

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature