Sexually transmitted diseases including genital papillomavirus infection in male sexual partners of women treated for cervical intraepithelial neoplasia III by conization

Summary. History and clinical prevalence of sexually transmitted diseases (STD), including genital human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, were studied in 60 sexual partners of 60 women previously treated for cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) III by conization. Investigations included serological and bacteriological screening, histopathology and colposcopy. A history of STD was reported by 20 men (33%), and 34 (57%) had signs of STD including genital HPV infection, 2 (3%) had a chlamydial infection, one had molluscum contageosum, 7 (12%) had genital warts and 24 (40%) had abnormal acetowhite epithelium, indicating HPV infection. The HPV lesions were principally subclinical and located on the glans penis and the prepuce. Colposcopy and application of acetic acid are essential for detection. The gynaecologist and venereologist must recognize the sexually transmitted nature of CIN, and the causal link between CIN and HPV infection. Assessment and treatment of the male sexual partner of women treated for CIN might be an essential part in disease control with the aim of preventing cervical cancer.