Original article Meta-analysis of systemic lupus erythematosus and the risk of cervical neoplasia

Objective. Individuals with SLE have a heightened risk of developing atypical cervical smears or cervical cancer. Many studies have investigated the association between SLE and cervical neoplasia risk. However, the risk for SLE associated with cervical neoplasia risk is unclear. The present meta-analysis clarified the risk of cervical neoplasia in patients with SLE. Methods. A systematic review of English-language studies was conducted. Data on the risk of cervical neoplasia risk in patients with SLE were pooled using case–control models. Replication studies that tested the association between SLE and cervical neoplasia risk were reviewed for meta-analysis. The meta-analysis procedure was used to pool odds ratios (ORs) with 95 % CIs to evaluate the association. Results. Seven replication studies fulfilled the selection criteria for inclusion in the meta-analysis. Homogeneity was confirmed across the replication studies. The common OR was 4.17 (95 % CI 3.03, 5.74; P<0.00001) for the study. The association was confirmed when individuals with SLE have an increased susceptibility to cervical neoplasia risk. Conclusion. This meta-analysis demonstrates the positive association between SLE and cervical neoplasia risk. Individuals with SLE have a heightened risk of developing cervical cancer. Key words: Meta-analysis, Systemic lupus erythematosus, Cervical neoplasia