Zinc Sulfate for Human Papillomavirus (HPV)

Oral Zinc Sulfate for the Treatment of High Risk Cervical HPV Versus Placebo

The Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is well established as the primary causative agent in both warts and cervical cancer. Although cervical high risk HPV (hrHPV) infections have a high rate of spontaneous resolution this takes time and the infection can cause cervical cells to progress to precancerous and cancerous lesions. Zinc has been shown to play a central role in immunity. This study is to determine if oral zinc sulfate can improve clearance rates of high risk HPV versus placebo.

Upon enrollment eligible participants will be randomized and given a three-month supply of zinc sulfate or placebo to be taken as directed. They will have zinc serum lab testing at enrollment and upon study completion. Patients will also be asked to complete short questionnaires and to make study staff aware of any side effects they should experience.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Abnormal cytology of atypical squamous cells of undetermined significance (ASCUS) on Pap smear OR
• Low-grade squamous intra epithelial lesions (LSIL) on Pap smear OR
• Positive hrHPV on routine screening (positive HPV will be assumed to be high grade)

Exclusion Criteria:

• Patients who proceed to excisional procedures (loop electrosurgical excision procedure or cold knife conization)
• Pregnant patients
• Breastfeeding patients
• Immunocompromised patients