HPV DNA in LEEP Plume
Author Information
Author(s): Anil K. Sood, Zahra Bahrani-Mostafavi, Jay Stoerker, I. Keith Stone
Primary Institution: University of Florida College of Medicine
Hypothesis
This study was undertaken to determine the prevalence of human papillomavirus (HPV) in loop electrosurgical excision procedure (LEEP) plumes.
Conclusion
The study found that HPV DNA was present in 37% of the smoke plumes generated during LEEP procedures.
Supporting Evidence
- 80% of tissue samples tested positive for HPV.
- HPV DNA was detected in 37% of the smoke filters.
- DNA sequencing confirmed the same HPV types in both tissue and filter samples.
Takeaway
Doctors found that the smoke created during a certain cervical procedure can contain a virus called HPV, which might be risky.
Methodology
The study tested 49 women with cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) by collecting smoke plumes during LEEP and analyzing them for HPV DNA using PCR.
Limitations
The study does not clarify whether the HPV DNA found in the plume is viable or infectious.
Participant Demographics
The study involved 49 consecutive women who had a LEEP performed at the University of Florida.
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