P16INK4a as a progression/regression tumour marker in LSIL cervix lesions: our clinical experience

Purpose of investigation: The aim of this prospective study was the evaluation of low-grade intraepithelial lesion (LSIL) lesions evolvement in woman with evidence of high risk HPV infection and p16^INK4a negative expression. Materials and Methods: 150 women with cytological diagnosis of LSIL were selected to be underwent to three years of follow-up consisting in smear test, colposcopy, and protein p16^INK4a investigation every six months and HPV-test every 12 months. Result: Final follow-up showed 45 cases of spontaneous lesion regression and 42 cases of persistence with absence of protein p16^INK4a in all of them. There were three cases of disease progression to CIN2, two at 18-month follow-up and one at last follow-up. Disease progression was characterized of p16^INK4a expression. Conclusion: p16^INK4a should help to identify which LSIL cases are inclined to the progression of the disease and focalize which patients are eligible for specific treatment.

Protein p16INK4a; LSIL; Marker of progression; High risk; HPV infection

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