Persistent human papillomavirus infection: Definitions and clinical implications

Although the numbers of studies are limited, knowledge of the natural history of HPV is beginning to emerge with the application of new molecular techniques. Utilising these techniques in prospective cohort studies has broadened our knowledge on the magnitude and transient nature of most HPV infections. Persistent infection is defined as testing positive for the same HPV DNA type at one year or longer. Identifying and treating patients with persistent infection and its pathologic manifestations are the key to preventing cervical cancer until an effective vaccine is implemented world-wide.