Squamous intraepithelial lesions associated with HIV infection and CD4+ cell counts in an Iranian population

ABSTRACT

To evaluate the association between cervical squamous intraepithelial lesions [SIL] and the human immunodeficiency virus [HIV] infection and CD4 counts among an Iranian population. Case-control study. North and East Tehran Health Centers, related to Shaheed Beheshti Medical University, Iran. Two hundred forty seven women including 58 HIV infected cases and 189 healthy controls recruited between 2007 and 2010. None. Cytology-based cervical Pap smears and hematologic findings were compared between cases and controls. The prevalence of abnormal smear was significantly higher in the study group [36.2%, 15 LSIL + 6 HSIL] compared with controls [3.2%, 6 ASCUS] [p < 0.001, OR = 2.4, 95% CI 1.2 - 4.6]. The mean of CD4 count was significantly lower in cases with abnormal smear compared with cases with normal smear [573.0 +/- 306.9 Vs 383.7 +/- 123.6; p = 0.042]. Our results suggest the need for undertaking a serious effort towards the provision of gynecological care and cervical cancer screening at the same health center as HIV care, in Iranian HIV infected women