HIV in cervical cancer

Abstract

Women are an increasing proportion of the HIV-infected population. In addition, compared with their HIV-negative counterparts, they have a greater incidence of both cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) and invasive cervical cancer, which tends to be more progressive and aggressive. The development of invasive cervical carcinoma in an HIV-infected woman is an AIDS-defining diagnosis. However, what is not clear is whether women who are identified with cervical carcinoma should be offered screening for HIV infection. This review addresses these issues and provides a cost-effectiveness assessment.