Prematurity risk in association with human papillomavirus infection

S.D. Popescu, A.M. Bănică, S. Vlădăreanu, A.G. Marin, R. Vladareanu

Rezumat: Prematurity is an important cause of neonatal morbidity and mortality. Recent studies have shown that human papillomavirus (HPV) infection also extends to the newborn. During pregnancy, the risk of obstetric complications, such as preterm premature rupture of fetal membranes (PPROM), prematurity, preeclampsia and spontaneous abortion, increase through inflammatory changes induced in trophoblast cells and, thus, through histopathologically identified placental abnormalities. The prevalence of HPV is increasing among young population, with a peak around the age of 25 years old. In addition, other infectious diseases, such as bacterial vaginosis and trichomoniasis, can also act to cause PPROM by similar mechanisms. Worldwide, there are three types of inactivated HPV vaccines (bivalent, quadrivalent and 9-valent), with the latter (Gardasil-9®) being currently the most recommended for use in the general population. Even though HPV vaccination will never reach a 100% coverage, its implementation in national immunization programs worldwide is one of the key solutions needed in order to reduce the impact of prematurity on the newborn.
Cuvinte cheie: HPV, prematurity, HPV vaccination, PPROM, placental disfunction, obstetric adverse outcome.