Accelerated regression rates of cervical high-risk human papillomavirus infections by punch biopsies of the uterine cervix

Introduction: The natural course of HPV-infections of the uterine cervix is characterized by a high rate of clearance in the first year and lower regression rates in subsequent follow-up years, while persistent infections may lead to CIN3+. Observational studies often rely on punch biopsies to assess the infection status, ignoring potential effects of this procedure itself on the natural course of HPV-infection. Patients/methods: To assess the effect of biopsies on the rate and time to HPV-regression, we analyzed follow-up periods among 30 – 70 years old women with positive HPV-test and normal cytology from a pr…