Establishment of a two-dimensional PCR method for simultaneous detection of nine sexually transmitted disease pathogens: insights into coinfection rates and epidemiological trends in HPV screening

This study introduces the first single-tube 2D-PCR method for efficient, high-throughput detection of nine STDPs, addressing a critical gap in co-infection diagnostics. The high prevalence of STDPs and their strong association with human papillomavirus (HPV) infection underscore the clinical relevance of co-pathogen screening, particularly in HPV-positive populations. The significant linkage between <i>U. parvum</i>/<i>U. urealyticum</i>, <i>M. hominis</i>, and HPV infection suggests potential synergistic mechanisms influencing HPV persistence or progression. Notably, the predominance of HPV 52 and increased prevalence of genotypes 53, 6, 11, 42, 43, and 61 in STDP-infected individuals highlight how pathogen co-infections may modulate HPV genotype distribution. These findings provide a robust tool for integrated STDPs/HPV screening and offer epidemiological insights to guide targeted prevention strategies, ultimately enhancing management of sexually transmitted infections and HPV-related cervical disease.