Papillomavirus infection of the female genital tract before and after treatment: a cytological, colposcopic and histological study.
Papillomavirus infection (HPV) of the female genital tract is now recognized as a major risk factor for the development of neoplasia. With the combined investigative modalities of cytology, colposcopy and histopathology, it is clear that precancerous changes and HPV are closely associated. The differentiation of innocent HPV infection from progressive premalignant disease is not clear-cut in all situations. Despite various treatment modalities, close follow-up of these patients by cytology, colposcopy and histology reveals the presence of persistent genital tract infection by HPV.