Analysis of human genital warts (condylomata acuminata) and other genital tumors for human papillomavirus type 6 DNA

Increased human papillomavirus viral load is correlated to higher severity of cervical disease and poorer clinical outcome: A systematic review

Cervical cancer is the fourth most common cancer in women worldwide and is caused by persistent infection with high-risk types of human papillomavirus (HPV). HPV viral load, the amount of HPV DNA in a sample, has been suggested to correlate with cervical disease severity, and with clinical outcome of cervical cancer. In this systematic review, we searched three databases (EMBASE, PubMed, Web of Science) to examine the current evidence on the association between HPV viral load in cervical samples and disease severity, as well as clinical outcome. After exclusion of articles not on HPV, cervical cancer, or containing clinical outcomes, 85 original studies involving 173 746 women were included. The vast majority (73/85 = 85.9%) reported that a higher viral load was correlated with higher disease severity or worse clinical outcome. Several studies reported either no correlation (3/85 = 3.5%), or the opposite correlation (9/85 = 10.6%); possible reasons being different categorization of HPV viral load levels, or the use of specific sampling methods. Despite variations in study design and populations, the above findings suggest that HPV viral load is correlated to clinical outcome, and may become an important biomarker for treatment selection and response monitoring for cervical cancer.

A rare case of self-healing giant condyloma acuminatum

Giant condyloma acuminatum (GCA) which is also called Buschke-Lowenstein tumor. It is a rare tumor of the anorectal area and external genitalia associated with low-risk HPV types 6 or 11. GCA has a high-rate of recurrence (66%) and malignant transformation (56%). The clinical features of GCA are progression of exophytic, ulcerative, and cauliflower-shaped tumors, it has significant dimensions and may undergo malignant transformation such as squamous cell carcinoma or cervical cancer. It is difficult to treat GCA, and it may be impossible for GCA to self-healing, but we herein report a rare case of a 19-year-old female with self-healing GCA.

Viruses and Skin Cancer

Advances in virology and skin cancer over recent decades have produced achievements that have been recognized not only in the field of dermatology, but also in other areas of medicine. They have modified the therapeutic and preventive solutions that can be offered to some patients and represent a significant step forward in our knowledge of the biology of skin cancer. In this paper, we review the viral agents responsible for different types of skin cancer, especially for solid skin tumors. We focus on human papillomavirus and squamous cell cancers, Merkel cell polyomavirus and Merkel cell carcinoma, and human herpesvirus 8 and Kaposi’s sarcoma.

Human genetic dissection of papillomavirus-driven diseases: new insight into their pathogenesis

Human papillomaviruses (HPVs) infect mucosal or cutaneous stratified epithelia. There are 5 genera and more than 200 types of HPV, each with a specific tropism and virulence. HPV infections are typically asymptomatic or result in benign tumors, which may be disseminated or persistent in rare cases, but a few oncogenic HPVs can cause cancers. This review deals with the human genetic and immunological basis of interindividual clinical variability in the course of HPV infections of the skin and mucosae. Typical epidermodysplasia verruciformis (EV) is characterized by β-HPV-driven flat wart-like and pityriasis-like cutaneous lesions and non-melanoma skin cancers in patients with inborn errors of EVER1-EVER2-CIB1-dependent skin-intrinsic immunity. Atypical EV is associated with other infectious diseases in patients with inborn errors of T cells. Severe cutaneous or anogenital warts, including anogenital cancers, are also driven by certain α-, γ-, μ or ν-HPVs in patients with inborn errors of T lymphocytes and antigen-presenting cells. The genetic basis of HPV diseases at other mucosal sites, such as oral multifocal epithelial hyperplasia or juvenile recurrent respiratory papillomatosis (JRRP), remains poorly understood. The human genetic dissection of HPV-driven lesions will clarify the molecular and cellular basis of protective immunity to HPVs, and should lead to novel diagnostic, preventive, and curative approaches in patients.

Clinicopathologic features of Buschke-Löwenstein tumor: a multi-institutional analysis of 38 cases

Buschke-Löwenstein tumor (BLT) is a rare sexually transmitted disease, mostly described in clinical literature as case reports or small series. Here, we investigated the clinicopathologic features of BLT in a total of 38 cases retrieved from multiple academic institutions. The average age was 47.6 ± 12.8 (mean ± SD) years old at diagnosis. The male to female ratio was 4.4:1. Common presenting symptoms were pain/discomfort, bleeding, mass lesion, and discharge. It was frequently linked to smoking and positive human immunodeficiency virus status. The tumor size and thickness were 8.5 ± 6.6 cm and 1.5 ± 1.3 cm, respectively. Histologically, 19 (50%) cases had an invasive squamous cell carcinoma component and were associated with high-risk human papillomavirus infection. There was no lymphovascular or perineural invasion, or nodal metastasis at initial diagnosis. BLTs with invasion had higher frequency of dyskeratosis, neutrophilic microabscesses, and abnormal mitoses, but lower frequency of pushing border compared with BLTs without invasion. All patients underwent wide excision, and some also received chemoradiation therapy. After a median follow-up of 23 months (range 1-207), the recurrence rate was 23.7% and disease-specific mortality was 2.6%. In summary, we presented the largest case series of BLT to date to characterize its unique clinicopathologic features. Our study indicated that certain histologic features such as dyskeratosis, neutrophilic microabscess, and abnormal mitosis in the non-invasive portion may be important clues on lesional biopsy to predict the presence of underlying invasive carcinoma.

Giant condyloma acuminatum in pregnancy: A case report

The giant condyloma acuminatum (GCA), also known as Buschke-Löwenstein tumor (BLT), is a type of human papilloma virus-associated sexually transmitted infection. Treatment options for condyloma acuminatum remain controversial, but surgery seems to be the best option. The management of GCA during pregnancy is more complicated since one has to evaluate the condition of both the mother and the fetus. In this report, we presented a GCA case in a pregnant woman with giant masses that covered the perineal and perianal region. Considering the gestational age and the fetal neurological risk from the anticipated lengthy procedure of mass removal surgery for tumor of this size, we decided to resect the tumor 2 weeks after the infant was delivered via C-section.

Verrucous Carcinoma of the Vulva: A 20 Year Retrospective Study and Literature Review

OBJECTIVE

The aim of the study was to assess the clinicopathological characteristics of patients with verrucous carcinoma (VC) of the vulva.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We reviewed data on the age, disease course, clinical manifestation, pathologic diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up of patients with vulvar VC who were treated at Tianjin Medical University General Hospital and cases that were reported in the Chinese and English literature during the past 20 years.

RESULTS

Six cases were identified in Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, the mean age of patients was 55 years, and their mean disease course was 26 months. Primary symptoms were exophytic neoplasm with pruritus and/or pain. Surgical treatment included wide local excision, simple vulvectomy, and radical vulvectomy with or without lymph node dissection in the groin. Vulvar VC occurred simultaneously with vulvar intraepithelial neoplasia in 2 cases and well-differentiated squamous cell carcinoma in 2 cases. The mean follow-up was 16.8 months with no recurrence in those 6 cases. During the 20-year period, 20 and 41 cases were reported in Chinese and English literature, respectively. Three cases were misdiagnosed with giant condyloma acuminatum in China. One case (1/20) was reported with coexistent squamous carcinoma in Chinese literature and 8 cases (8/41) in the English literature. The recurrence rate was 12.5% (2/19) and 17.5% (7/40) in Chinese and English literature, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Vulvar VC is a distinct type of slow-growing, nonmetastatic tumor with unclear etiology. These tumors should be distinguished from giant condyloma acuminatum and well-differentiated squamous cell carcinoma. Surgery is the most effective treatment.

Human papillomavirus prevalence and type distribution in urine samples from Norwegian women aged 17 and 21 years: A nationwide cross-sectional study of three non-vaccinated birth cohorts

Background

The aim of the current study was to assess the HPV prevalence in unscreened and unvaccinated young women living in Norway, to provide important baseline data for early estimation of the impact of the HPV vaccination program.

Methods

A total of 13,129 self-sampled urine samples from two complete birth-cohorts of 17-year old women born in 1994 and 1996 and one third of a birth-cohort of 21-year old women born in 1990, were analysed for the presence of 37 HPV types using PCR and a DNA hybridization technique.

Results

In the two birth cohorts of 17-year old women, HPV was detected in 19.9% (95% CI 18.8–20.9) and 15.4% (95% CI 14.5–16.3), respectively. High-risk HPV types were detected in 11.2% (95% CI 10.3–12.0) and 7.6% (95% CI 6.9–8.2), respectively, while vaccine types were detected in 7.4% (95% CI 6.7–8.1) and 6.0% (95% CI 5.4–6.6), respectively. Among the 21-year old women HPV was detected in 45.4% (95% CI 42.9–47.8), whereas high-risk types were detected in 29.8% (95% CI 27.5–32.0). Vaccine types (HPV 6, 11, 16, 18) were detected in 16.2% (95% CI 14.4–18.1).

Conclusion

This large population based study confirms that HPV testing in urine samples is easy and highly feasible for epidemiological studies and vaccine surveillance in young women. HPV was very common and a broad spectrum of HPV types was identified. Differences in HPV prevalence was seen both between age groups and between the two birth cohorts of 17-year old women.

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Self-sampled urine proved suitable for large scale HPV testing.

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HPV 16 and 18 was very common among young girls.

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A wide variety of HPV types circulates in the population.

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HPV was detected in nearly half of the 21-year old women.

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HPV was detected in 15–20% of the 17-year old women.

Does human papillomavirus-negative condylomata exist?

Condylomata acuminata is caused by human papillomavirus (HPV). PCR with consensus primers will typically detect HPV in >96% of condylomata. Metagenomic sequencing has found that some "HPV-negative" condylomata do indeed contain HPV. We wished to perform a renewed evaluation of the "HPV-negative" condylomata using deeper metagenomics sequencing. Sequencing of whole genome amplified DNA from 40 apparently "HPV-negative" condylomata detected HPV in 37/40 specimens. We found 75 different HPV types, out of which 43 represented novel putative HPV types. Three types were cloned and established as HPV types 200, 201 and 202. Molluscum contagiosum virus was detected in 24 of the 40 samples. In summary, deep sequencing enables detection of HPV in almost all condylomata. "HPV-negative" condylomata might largely be explained by clinical misdiagnosis or the presence of viral variants, distantly related HPV types and/or low viral loads.

The giant condyloma (buschke-löwenstein tumor) in the immunocompromised patient

Since Buschke and Löwenstein first described the giant condyloma in 1925 (which subsequently was named Buschke-Löwenstein tumor), there have been scattered reports over the past 90 years describing presentation and different avenues of treatment for patients with this condition. It is well known that immunocompromised individuals are at an increased risk of anogenital disease caused by human papillomavirus (HPV). In this report, we present the management of two HIV positive patients with giant condylomas. Both patients presented with urinary outflow obstruction and sepsis. Though giant condylomas are a rare phenomenon, these two cases underscore the importance of early treatment intervention, especially in the immunocompromised patient.

Therapeutic Evaluation of Intralesional 5% 5-Fluorouracil in Condyloma Acuminata

Condyloma acumianata is one of the most common virally transmitted diseases. Its prevalence has increased many fold throughout the world. Because all the currently available treatments yield low cure rates with side effects, the search for a new alternative continues. Topically, 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) has been in used for many years to treat various skin diseases. When applied topically in condyloma acuminata, 5-FU results in low cure rates with high recurrences. Therefore, intralesional 5% 5-FU is being evaluated to determine its therapeutic efficacy in condyloma acuminata.

Buschke-Lowenstein tumour of glans penis

INTRODUCTION

Buschke-Löwenstein tumour, also known as Giant condyloma acuminatum, is a rare, sexually transmitted disease that affects ano-genital region. BLT is a slow growing cauliflower-like tumour, locally aggressive and destructive. Human papillomavirus has been identified as an important contributory factor in the development of tumour.

PRESENTATION OF CASE

A 45 year uncircumcised male presented with complaints of cauliflower like growth on glans penis. Growth started as a small papule on the corona sulcus at 12 O'clock position 6 months back. Patient developed pain and dysuria due to compression of urethral meatus. Patient has history of multiple sexual partners.

DISCUSSION

BLT, first described by Buschke and Lowenstein in 1925. They observed a penile lesion that clinically resembled both common condyloma acuminata and squamous cell carcinoma, but differing from both of them regarding the biological behaviour and the histopathological appearance. GCA can be differentiated from ordinary condylomas by the characteristic "pushing" rather than "infiltrating" effect that tends to compress and displace the underlying tissue.

CONCLUSION

We have successfully treated a penile BLT with surgical excision and no relapse up to 6 months. Surgical excision could be considered an effective therapy in the treatment.

Human papillomavirus typing in reporting of condyloma

BACKGROUND

Monitoring of condylomas is an early evidence of population effectiveness of human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination programs. If reporting could include HPV typing, the contribution by vaccine HPV types to condyloma burden could be monitored.

METHODS

A sentinel site for reporting of condyloma including HPV typing was established at the Centre for Sexual Health in Malmö, Sweden. In 2006 to 2009, when there were few HPV vaccines, 621 subjects with condyloma were reported and HPV genotyped.

RESULTS

Ninety-four percent of the condylomas contained genital HPV types. Thirty-five different genital HPV types were identified, with HPV6 (62%), HPV16 (13%), and HPV11 (10%) being the most common. At least 1 of the 4 HPV types in the HPV6/11/16/18 vaccine was detected in 77%. High-risk HPV types were more common in females (45%) than among males (27%) (odds ratio, 1.9; confidence interval, 1.3-2.8). Extended testing among subjects initially negative for HPV found 21 patients with cutaneous types of HPV, including a novel type (HPV153).

CONCLUSIONS

This report provides a baseline distribution of HPV types in condylomas before the introduction of an HPV vaccination program in this population. Human papillomavirus typing is feasible in routine condyloma reporting.

[HPV-associated alterations of the vulva and vagina. Morphology and molecular pathology]

Non-neoplastic HPV-induced alterations of the vulva and vagina are frequent. The traditional three-tier grading system of vulvar intraepithelial neoplasia (VIN) will be replaced by the definition of usual and simplex type of VIN. The usual type is characterized by a strong association to high-risk HPV infections, the occurrence at younger age and multifocality, mostly associated with non-keratinizing squamous cell carcinoma. The differentiated (or simplex) type is rare and shows an association to older age and p53 alterations and is typically diagnosed co-incidentally with keratinizing squamous cell carcinoma. Vaginal intraepithelial neoplasia (VAIN) is still graded into VAIN 1-3 where VAIN 1 and 2 are mostly associated with low-risk HPV infections and a high spontaneous regression rate whereas VAIN 3 represents a high-risk HPV-associated lesion with capable progression into (micro-)invasive carcinoma. The differential diagnosis between a non-neoplastic condylomatous lesion and VIN common type and VAIN may be aided by p16 immunohistochemistry. The HPV-associated invasive vulvo-vaginal cancers are verrucous carcinoma (low-risk HPV) and the high-risk HPV-induced (non-keratinizing) squamous cell carcinoma (NOS), the condylomatous (warty) carcinoma and the very rare vaginal squamo-transitional carcinoma.

Buschke-Lowenstein tumor

BACKGROUND

Verrucous carcinoma of the skin and mucosa is an uncommon type of well-differentiated squamous cell carcinoma. When it is present in the genitoanal region the term used is Buschke-Lowenstein tumor. The human papillomavirus seems to be implicated in its aetiology. Treatment is controversial. Topical chemotherapy, radiotherapy, immunotherapy and radical surgery have been employed.

MAIN OBSERVATIONS

We report a rapidly progressing penile verrucous carcinoma which was treated sucessfuly with conservative surgery and CO2 laser.

CONCLUSION

Treatment with CO2 laser in combination with conservative surgery may be a therapeutic option in Buschke-Lowenstein tumor.

Isolated corneal papilloma-like lesion associated with human papilloma virus type 6

PURPOSE

To report a case of a corneal papilloma-like lesion associated with human papilloma virus type 6.

METHODS

A 48-year-old woman presented with a 2-year history of ocular discomfort and gradual visual deterioration in her right eye. Ophthalmic examination revealed an elevated, semitranslucent, well-defined vascularized mass approximately 4 × 2.5 mm in size localized to the right cornea. The surface of the mass appeared smooth and many small, shallow, and irregular elevations were noted.

RESULTS

An excisional biopsy was performed. The underlying cornea was markedly thinned, and fine ramifying vasculature was also noted on the exposed corneal stroma. Typical koilocytic change was observed on the histopathologic examination. Polymerase chain reaction revealed the existence of human papilloma virus type 6 DNA.

CONCLUSIONS

Here we describe a case of an isolated corneal papilloma-like lesion. Although the corneal extension of the limbal or the conjunctival papillomas has been commonly observed, an isolated corneal papilloma-like lesion with underlying stromal destruction has only rarely been reported.

Rapid progression of an anal Buschke-Lowenstein tumour into a metastasising squamous cell carcinoma in an HIV-infected patient

BACKGROUND

Buschke-Löwenstein tumour (BLT) of the anogenitalia is a locally invasive, destructively growing verrucous carcinoma that does not metastasise. Histologically BLT resembles benign condylomata acuminata. Nevertheless, the tumour grows relentlessly and may rarely progress into squamous cell cancer (SCC).

RESULTS

A human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-infected immunosuppressed patient developed (peri)anal warts accompanied by recurrent abscesses and fistulae. Histology revealed condylomata acuminata, and low-risk genital human papillomavirus (HPV) type 11b was detected. Six months later, the tumour had progressed into an ulcerated SCC that destroyed the rectum and perineum, with metastases to the inguinal lymph nodes. Whereas highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) effectively suppressed HIV replication, radiochemotherapy plus anti-EGFR antibody did not halt tumour progression, and the patient died from tumour-cachexia.

DISCUSSION

As far as is known, this is the first report demonstrating rapid progression of a BLT into a metastasising SCC in an HIV-infected patient.

Papillomaviruses in the causation of human cancers - a brief historical account

Approximately 35 years ago a role of human papillomaviruses (HPV) in cervical cancer has been postulated. Today it is well established that this very heterogeneous virus family harbours important human carcinogens, causing not only the vast majority of cervical, but also a substantial proportion of other anogenital and head and neck cancers. In addition, specific types have been linked to certain cutaneous cancers. In females, HPV infections on a global scale account for more than 50% of infection-linked cancers, in males for barely 5%. Vaccines against the high risk HPV types 16 and 18 represent the first preventive vaccines directly developed to protect against a major human cancer (cervical carcinoma). This review will cover some of the historical aspects of papillomavirus research; it tries briefly to analyze the present state of linking HPV to human cancers and will discuss some emerging developments.

Human papillomavirus type-distribution in condylomata acuminata of mainland China: a meta-analysis

The aim of this work was to study the human papillomavirus (HPV) type-distribution in condylomata acuminata (CA) of mainland China and to estimate the potential role of HPV prophylactic vaccines for CA in mainland China. Forty-three studies using polymerase chain reaction to detect HPV were included in this meta-analysis, and totally 5247 CA cases and 436 controls were included. The overall and type-specific prevalence of HPV 6, 11, 40, 42, 43, 44 were estimated using non-conditional logistic regression model. Overall HPV prevalence was 84.2% and 4.6% for CA and controls, respectively. Estimated HPV types 6, 11, 40, 42 positive fractions in CA were 54.9%, 41.1%, 2.7% and 2.0%, respectively, and exactly 0% for HPV types 43 and 44. HPV 6 and/or 11-positive fractions were 83.0% in mainland China. Thus, prophylactic HPV vaccine has the potential to protect up to 83% of CA cases in mainland China.

PATJ, a tight junction-associated PDZ protein, is a novel degradation target of high-risk human papillomavirus E6 and the alternatively spliced isoform 18 E6

The E6 protein from high-risk human papillomavirus types interacts with and degrades several PDZ domain-containing proteins that localize to adherens junctions or tight junctions in polarized epithelial cells. We have identified the tight junction-associated multi-PDZ protein PATJ (PALS1-associated TJ protein) as a novel binding partner and degradation target of high-risk types 16 and 18 E6. PATJ functions in the assembly of the evolutionarily conserved CRB-PALS1-PATJ and Par6-aPKC-Par3 complexes and is critical for the formation of tight junctions in polarized cells. The ability of type 18 E6 full-length to bind to, and the subsequent degradation of, PATJ is dependent on its C-terminal PDZ binding motif. We demonstrate that the spliced 18 E6* protein, which lacks a C-terminal PDZ binding motif, associates with and degrades PATJ independently of full-length 18 E6. Thus, PATJ is the first binding partner that is degraded in response to both isoforms of 18 E6. The ability of E6 to utilize a non-E6AP ubiquitin ligase for the degradation of several PDZ binding partners has been suggested. We also demonstrate that 18 E6-mediated degradation of PATJ is not inhibited in cells where E6AP is silenced by shRNA. This suggests that the E6-E6AP complex is not required for the degradation of this protein target.

Development of a topical protein therapeutic for human papillomavirus and associated cancers

Human papillomaviruses (HPVs) are the causative agents of several disease states, including genital warts and cervical cancer. There are around 500 million cases of genital warts per annum worldwide and around 450,000 cases of cervical cancer. Although HPV vaccines should eventually reduce the incidence of these diseases, new and effective treatments are still urgently required. The E2 (early) proteins from some HPV types induce growth arrest and apoptosis, and these proteins could be used as therapeutics for HPV-induced disease. A major obstacle to this approach concerns the delivery of the protein to HPV-transformed cells and/or HPV-infected cells in vivo. One possible solution is to use recombinant viruses to deliver E2. Another possible solution is to use purified E2 proteins or E2 fusion proteins. The herpes simplex virus VP22 protein is one of a small number of proteins that have been shown to cross the cell membrane with high efficiency. VP22-E2 fusion proteins produced in bacterial cells are able to enter mammalian cells and induce apoptosis. This suggests that VP22-E2 fusion proteins could be topically applied as a treatment for HPV-induced diseases, most probably post-surgery. In this review, we discuss this and other approaches to the topical delivery of selective therapeutic agents against HPV-associated conditions.

[Buschke-Löwenstein tumour: diagnosis and treatment]

Buschke-Löwenstein tumour is classified as a verrucous carcinoma. It presents like an exophytic tumour of the genital or peri-anal area, with ulceration and sometimes fistulae and sinuses. It is preferentially seen in men and immunocompromised patients. Histological appearance is not far from condyloma acuminata, but with a tendency to compress and displace deeper tissues, without basement membrane disruption. HPV types 6 or 11 are regularly found in association with this tumour. Other STI have to be searched. Physical examination and precise imagery are useful to chose the right treatment regimen. Radical excision is recommended to avoid malignant transformation, but has to be large because of the high number of recurrences. Other treatment modalities such as chemotherapy or imiquimod could be of interest to avoid mutilating surgical interventions. A regular follow-up is necessary because of frequent recurrences and possible malignant transformation.

The human papillomavirus type 11 E1--E4 protein is a transglutaminase 3 substrate and induces abnormalities of the cornified cell envelope

The human papillomavirus (HPV) E1--E4 protein is detected in the cytoplasm of differentiated keratinocytes, near the cornified cell envelope. HPV does not induce lysis of the infected keratinocyte, and the normally durable cornified cell envelope that forms during keratinocyte differentiation would seemingly inhibit viral egress. HPV infection induces abnormalities of the cornified cell envelope, but the exact mechanisms involved are not well understood. We tested whether the HPV 11 E1--E4 protein, which co-localizes the cell envelope and co-purifies with cell envelope fragments, could serve as an in vitro substrate for transglutaminases. We found evidence of E1--E4 cross-linking by endogenous transglutaminases in an in situ assay using frozen sections of human foreskin, and in addition, E1--E4 protein was cross-linked by recombinant transglutaminase 3 (but not transglutaminase 1) in an in vitro cross-linking assay. We also tested whether expression of E1--E4 in differentiated keratinocytes would induce morphologic alterations of cornified cell envelopes. Differentiated keratinocytes expressing E1--E4 were disorganized and pleomorphic compared to control cells, and cell envelopes purified from E1--E4-expressing cells were small, fragmented, and rough bordered compared to the round, smooth bordered cell envelopes from control cells. We conclude from these in vitro experiments that the E1--E4 protein is cross-linked by transglutaminase 3, and that E1--E4 expression in differentiated keratinocytes induces morphologic abnormalities of the cornified cell envelope.

Squamous cell carcinoma arising in a giant condyloma acuminatum (Buschke-Lowenstein tumour)

Giant condyloma acuminatum (GCA) is a tumour that primarily affects the genital and perianal areas. Despite the histologically benign appearance, it behaves in a malignant fashion, destroying adjacent tissues, and is regarded as an entity intermediate between an ordinary condyloma acuminatum and squamous cell carcinoma. Primary anorectal lesions account for only a small number of GCA cases and, as with squamous cell carcinoma, the human papilloma virus is the causative agent. The hallmark of GCA is the high rate of local recurrence and transformation into squamous cell carcinoma. We describe a case of GCA complicated by malignant transformation, where locoregional control was achieved with combined chemoradiotherapy.

Coexistence of verrucous and squamous carcinoma of the vulva

AIM

To evaluate the coexistence of verrucous and squamous carcinoma of the vulva and to assess the clinical course, survival and rate of recurrent disease of these patients.

METHODS

The records of 17 patients who were diagnosed with verrucous carcinoma of the vulva over a 12-year period were studied retrospectively. Presence of genuine verrucous carcinoma or coexistence of verrucous and squamous carcinoma of the vulva on vulvar biopsies, results of histopathological assessment of final vulva and inguino-femoral node specimens and histological evaluation of recurrent disease specimens were the main outcome measures.

RESULTS

Five of the 17 patients (29.5%) initially underwent radical vulvectomy and inguino-femoral lymphadenectomy. Histology of the specimens verified the coexistence of verrucous and squamous carcinomas in four of the five cases. Twelve women (70.5%) underwent simple vulvectomy for genuine verrucous carcinoma; in the final histology, 10 of these women (58.8%) were confirmed as having genuine verrucous carcinomas while two (11.7%) were found to have both verrucous and squamous carcinomas and were further managed by lymphadenectomy. None of our patients died of the disease. Three women (17.5%) presented with local relapse of the tumour, and were managed by wide local excision of the tumour.

CONCLUSIONS

In the present study, 35% of patients with verrucous carcinomas of the vulva had coexistent squamous carcinoma. Separation of the cases of genuine verrucous carcinoma from coexistent verrucous and squamous tumours is based on the establishment of correct diagnosis by a large and deep vulvar biopsy as well as the meticulous assessment of the specimen by the pathologist. This will result in the decrease of the rate of over- and under-treatment of these patients.

Presence of papillomavirus sequences in condylomatous lesions of the mamillae and in invasive carcinoma of the breast

BACKGROUND

Viruses including Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), a human equivalent of murine mammary tumour virus (MMTV) and human papillomavirus (HPV) have been implicated in the aetiology of human breast cancer. We report the presence of HPV DNA sequences in areolar tissue and tumour tissue samples from female patients with breast carcinoma. The presence of virus in the areolar-nipple complex suggests to us a potential pathogenic mechanism.

METHODS

Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was undertaken to amplify HPV types in areolar and tumour tissue from breast cancer cases. In situ hybridisation supported the PCR findings and localised the virus in nipple, areolar and tumour tissue.

RESULTS

Papillomavirus DNA was present in 25 of 29 samples of breast carcinoma and in 20 of 29 samples from the corresponding mamilla. The most prevalent type in both carcinomas and nipples was HPV 11, followed by HPV 6. Other types detected were HPV 16, 23, 27 and 57 (nipples and carcinomas), HPV 20, 21, 32, 37, 38, 66 and GA3-1 (nipples only) and HPV 3, 15, 24, 87 and DL473 (carcinomas only). Multiple types were demonstrated in seven carcinomas and ten nipple samples.

CONCLUSIONS

The data demonstrate the occurrence of HPV in nipple and areolar tissues in patients with breast carcinoma. The authors postulate a retrograde ductular pattern of viral spread that may have pathogenic significance.

The virology of cervical neoplasia: an HPV-associated malignancy

Human papillomaviruses are present in virtually all cervical cancers and cancer precursors. Understanding the epithelial virology of this group of viruses has greatly influenced current concepts of cervical carcinogenesis, has provided a framework for understanding the biologic basis of many diagnostic criteria, and has led to revised classification schemes, diagnostic testing, and modifications in clinical management. This paper briefly reviews virologic concepts supporting the pathogenetic role of these viruses in cervical neoplasia.

Ocular Surface Squamous Neoplasia

Even though ocular surface squamous neoplasia (OSSN) has been recognized for well over a century, the past decade has witnessed advances that have helped rewrite many of the paradigms for the diagnosis and management of these lesions. OSSN occurs predominantly in the elderly for whom they are the third most common oculoorbital tumors after melanoma and lymphoma. In addition to advanced age and male sex, other major risk factors linked to its pathogenesis are ultraviolet light, cigarette smoking, and the human papilloma virus. Although the latter has been linked to OSSN for nearly 4 decades, its identification and role in the pathogenesis of these tumors has been elucidated recently and is addressed in detail in this review. Newer techniques of impression cytology represent a noninvasive and reliable method of diagnosing OSSN and monitoring treated cases. The efficacy of chemotherapeutic agents such as mitomycin C and 5-fluorouracil have been proven in the recent past, making them a clear alternative to the time-tested treatment of surgical excision and cryotherapy. Early reports on the efficacy of topical Iterferon alpha 2b indicate significant promise in providing another alternative for the treatment of some of these neoplasms. These advances thus represent a minimally invasive and highly successful approach to the diagnosis and treatment of OSSN.

Morphologic and biologic studies on ten cases of verrucous carcinoma of the vulva supporting the theory of a discrete clinico-pathologic entity

Ten cases of verrucous carcinoma (VC) of the vulva diagnosed from January 1989 to December 1996 were studied. Patient age ranged from 50 to 83 years. The following examinations were performed on buffered formalin-fixed material: 1). in situ DNA hybridization, probes HPV 6/11, 16/18, 31/35/51; and 2). a series of immunohistochemical stainings to demonstrate wild and mutant types of the p53 protein, cytokeratin expression and pattern distribution (AE1 and AE3), and proliferating pattern (MIB 1). In situ DNA hybridization analysis for human papillomavirus 6/11, 16/18, 31/35/51 was negative in all cases. Wild and mutant types of p53 protein transcribed from related oncosuppressor gene were not detected. Keratins AE1 and AE3 showed a peculiar distribution pattern, that is, AE1 was uniformly positive in the surface and intermediate layers, while it was almost negative in the basal layer which-on the contrary-was mainly positive to AE3 keratins. MIB-1 highlighted 10-40% of proliferating cells; however, in all cases, 70-80% of MIB-1 positivity was found in the basal layer of the neoplastic epithelium. These results seem to show the morphofunctional and growth characteristics of neoplastic epithelium, thus stressing that VC should be considered as a discrete entity in vulvar tumors.

Symposium part 1: Should the Bethesda System terminology be used in diagnostic surgical pathology?: Point

During the past 50 years, the histologic classification of cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) has evolved to incorporate the entire spectrum of genital papillomavirus infections, segregating those lesions with the higher risk of containing prototypic high-risk human papillomavirus types, and recently has meshed with treatment algorithms that include loop electrical excision procedures and follow-up alone. This review describes a classification system that divides CIN into categories of low-grade (CIN 1) and high-grade (CIN 2 and CIN 3). To successfully apply this system, the practitioner must efficiently exclude nonneoplastic entities and base the distinction of CIN 1 from CIN 2/3 on criteria that recognize the effects of viral oncogenes on replicating cells. This is achieved by basing the diagnosis of CIN 1 on uniform polarized epithelial growth, low mitotic index, low mitotic counts, and minimal parabasal cell anisokaryosis and coarse chromatin and CIN 2 on the presence of these features or abnormal mitoses. Simply put, the definition of CIN 2 (or higher) is the presence of atypical immature cells in the biopsy that if seen in a cytologic smear would merit a diagnosis of high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion. In essence, a successful two-grade system requires careful application of cytologic criteria in a histologic milieu. This model is illustrated in a set of 25 images that underscore the importance of excluding benign changes (with the appropriate use of biomarkers), segregating unusual variants of low-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions, and identifying the morphologic transition to high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions (CIN 2 or CIN 3) with an acceptable level of reproducibility.

Primary prevention of uterine cervix cancer: focus on vaccine history and current strategy

Primary prevention of uterine cervix cancer spans the gamut of human papillomavirus vaccine development, dietary adjustment, chemoprevention, and risk reduction. Lifestyle and social behaviors impact on risk for cervical cancer. Before examining the growing body of molecular evidence, animal studies, and phase I clinical trials that suggest that a virus-based vaccine for cervical cancer may soon become a reality, one must reflect on what has gone before in the vaccine-based battle with viral disease.

External genital warts: diagnosis, treatment, and prevention

External genital warts (EGWs) are visible warts that occur in the perigenital and perianal regions. They are due primarily to non-oncogenic human papillomavirus (HPV) types, usually types 6 and 11. Physical examination assisted by bright light and magnification is the recommended approach for primary diagnosis. Biopsy is indicated when EGWs are fixed to underlying structures or discolored or when standard therapies are not effective. Recurrences are common, and there is no single treatment that is superior to others. Among women with atypical squamous cells, molecular HPV testing may be useful in determining who should be referred for colposcopy. Condoms may provide some protection against HPV-related diseases and thus are recommended in new sexual relationships and when partnerships are not mutually monogamous. Because the efficacy of cesarean section in preventing vertical transmission of HPV infection from women with EGWs to their progeny has not been proved, it is not recommended.

Validity of self-reporting of episodes of external genital warts

To determine whether men are able to self-diagnose external genital warts (EGWs), we studied data from 1115 men with and without human immunodeficiency virus infection. Men were largely unable to accurately assess the presence of EGWs. Self-reporting of EGWs was not a sensitive tool; only 38% of men who had EGWs diagnosed by a trained examiner who used bright light and visual inspection also reported having them. When we controlled for other covariates in a multivariate model, men who had EGWs diagnosed by an examiner were 14 times less likely to show concordance between examiner findings and self-report than were men who did not have EGWs diagnosed by an examiner (odds ratio, 0.07; 95% confidence interval, 0.06-0.09). Self-diagnosis and self-assessment may not accurately reflect the presence of EGWs, and self-diagnosis should not be used in place of an examiner's findings for epidemiologic studies that seek to determine the cause of disease.

[Genital Buschke Loewenstein tumors. Report of 4 cases]

The authors present four cases of Buschke Loewenstein tumor. In three cases, the outcome was good despite areas of anaplasic change are seen in one of them. The outcome of the fourth patient was fatal because of multiples recurrences. Clinical features, diagnosis and treatment of this rare disease are discussed.

Human papillomavirus 16 and 18 expression in conjunctival intraepithelial neoplasia

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate conjunctival intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) and normal conjunctiva for the presence of human papillomavirus (HPV) DNA and for expression (as detected by the presence of mRNA) of the HPV E6 region.

DESIGN

Prospective, case-controlled study.

PARTICIPANTS

Ten consecutive patients who underwent CIN excision by one surgeon (CLK) and five age-matched control subjects who underwent retinal detachment repair at the Bascom Palmer Eye Institute.

METHODS

A reverse transcriptase in situ polymerase chain reaction (PCR) technique was used to search for the presence of HPV mRNA in CIN specimens from 10 consecutive patients who underwent CIN excision by one surgeon (CLK) at Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, as well as in clinically uninvolved conjunctival specimens from the same eyes of these patients. In addition, conjunctival specimens from five control subjects (age-matched to five of the cases), who had no clinically identifiable conjunctival disease and who underwent retinal detachment repair at the Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, were analyzed in a similar manner. The clinical diagnoses of CIN and normal conjunctiva were confirmed histopathologically in all cases by an ocular pathologist, who was masked as to the patients' clinical diagnoses, and the PCR testing was performed by an investigator (GJN) who was masked as to the clinical diagnoses.

RESULTS

HPV 16 DNA and mRNA were present in five CIN specimens, and HPV 18 DNA and mRNA were present in the other five CIN specimens; neither HPV 16 or 18 DNA nor mRNA were detected in any of the control specimens or in any of the clinically uninvolved conjunctival specimens (P < 0.001). In each of the CIN specimens, 20% to 40% of the dysplastic cells expressed the HPV E6 region.

CONCLUSIONS

HPV 16 or 18 DNA and mRNA corresponding to the E6 region were detected in all CIN specimens examined. HPV 16 or 18 DNA or mRNA was not present in any of the control or uninvolved conjunctival specimens. The consistency of the current findings with those reported for human cervical malignant lesions, and the fact that the protein encoded by the E6 region of HPV 16 and 18 has been shown to form a complex with the protein encoded by the host tumor suppressor gene p53, provide strong evidence for an etiologic role of HPV in the development of CIN.

Interaction of zyxin, a focal adhesion protein, with the e6 protein from human papillomavirus type 6 results in its nuclear translocation

Zyxin, a focal adhesion molecule, interacts specifically with the E6 protein from human papillomavirus (HPV) type 6 in a yeast two-hybrid screen of a cDNA library prepared from human keratinocytes. Zyxin does not interact significantly with E6 proteins from HPV types 11, 16, or 18. The interaction was confirmed by in vitro and in vivo analyses and it requires the LIM domains (Lin-11, Isl-1, and Mec-3 [G. Freyd, S. K. Kim, and H. R. Horvitz, Nature 344:876-879, 1990]) found at the carboxyl terminus of zyxin. Cotransfection of E6 from HPV ((6)E6) and zyxin results in the accumulation of zyxin in the nucleus where it can function as a transcriptional activator. (6)E6 can also mobilize endogenous zyxin to the nucleus.

Human papillomavirus and cervical carcinogenesis

Epidemiological studies show that infection with a subset of genital human papillomavirus (HPV) infections is the major risk factor for the subsequent development of cervical cancer. Experimental studies show that that the E6 and E7 genes of these high risk HPVs are oncogenes that deregulate key cell cycle controls. In the normal infectious cycle high level expression of these genes is confined to non-dividing differentiated cells: HPV oncogenesis requires deregulation of viral and cellular genes permitting inappropriate expression of E6 and E7. These are rare events but viral persistence and chronic exposure to steroid hormones increase the probability of this deregulation.

Gps2, a protein partner for human papillomavirus E6 proteins

We have used the yeast two-hybrid system to screen a cDNA library prepared from normal human epidermal keratinocytes and identified protein partners for human papilloma virus (HPV) E6 proteins. A clone that encoded Gps2 interacted with E6 proteins from HPVs of high and low oncogenic risk. The specificity of these reactions was verified and the regions of E6 that were required for interaction were mapped. Steady-state and pulse-chase analyses of cells cotransfected with DNAs expressing E6 from either HPV6 or HPV18 and Gps2 demonstrated that the E6 proteins induced the degradation of Gps2 in vivo but not in vitro. Gps2 exhibited transcriptional activation activity, and high-risk E6 suppressed this activity.