RESUMEN
OBJECTIVE: Persistent infection with high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV) is a key contributor to cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN), but the relation between high-risk HPV genotypes and the location of CIN lesions remains unclear. The aims of this study were to investigate the most frequent biopsy site of CIN lesions in women with different HPV infection and to analyze the biopsy times, CIN frequency, and the clustering of CIN frequency based on 12-o'clock sites and cervical quadrant locations. MATERIALS AND METHOD: We conducted a retrospective study of HPV detection and genotyping at the virology department of our hospital. Colposcopy exams were performed by specialists according to a standardized protocol, and all visually abnormal areas were further biopsied. Pearson chi-squared tests and cluster analyses were implemented to analyze the data. RESULTS: Among 1,381 women enrolled in this study, 933 cases infected with HPV. HPV16, HPV58, and HPV18 were the most common genotypes. The most frequent biopsy site was the 6 o'clock position. The highest frequency of high-grade CIN findings in single-genotype HPV groups was the 6 o'clock position and that for multiple-genotype HPV group was the 12 o'clock location. All CIN clusters were found in the 6 and 12 o'clock biopsy sites, except in the HPV18 group. Quadrant 2 and 4 were clustered in most groups. CONCLUSIONS: The 6 and 12 o'clock sites in cervical quadrant 2 and 4 should be targeted during cervical biopsy procedures. These findings can provide clinicians with specific recommendations on the optimal site for CIN biopsy when considering the HPV genotype.