Which cytological finding is commonly associated with HPV infection?

The identification of koilocytic changes in squamous cells is a hallmark finding associated with human papillomavirus (HPV) infection. Koilocytic changes are characterized by alterations in the cell morphology, typically including perinuclear halos and a wrinkled nuclear contour. These changes occur due to the destructive effects of the virus on the host cell's normal structure and function.

In cases of HPV infection, particularly with high-risk types that are associated with cervical dysplasia and cancer, koilocytic changes serve as critical indicators that support the diagnosis. Detecting these changes is essential for pathologists and cytologists, as it signals the need for further investigation and potential intervention.

While keratinized squamous cells may appear in various conditions, they are not specifically indicative of HPV presence. Inflammatory cell infiltration can occur due to numerous causes, including infections that are not related to HPV. Hyperplastic glandular cells can suggest other pathology, such as endometrial hyperplasia, but are not specifically tied to HPV infection. Hence, koilocytic changes are the definitive cytological finding linked to HPV, making it the correct choice for this question.