Role of human papillomavirus in oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma: A review

Molecular pathways in the development of HPV-induced oropharyngeal cancer

Oropharyngeal cancer, a subset of head and neck cancer, is increasingly recognized as a unique clinical entity primarily influenced by high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV) infections, particularly HPV-16. This review delves into the viral life cycle of HPV-16 and its interactions with host cells, with a specific focus on the crucial roles played by the viral oncoproteins E6 and E7. These oncoproteins drive cellular proliferation by targeting critical tumor suppressor proteins like p53 and Rb, resulting in uncontrolled cell growth and genomic instability. Furthermore, the significance of epigenetic modifications induced by HPV-16 and their implications is important for cancer progression. This comprehensive review provides valuable insights into the intricate molecular landscape of HPV-induced oropharyngeal cancer, shedding light on the development of targeted therapies and preventive strategies for this emerging global health concern. Video Abstract.

The Role of HPV in Determining Treatment, Survival, and Prognosis of Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma

Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection has been identified as a significant etiological agent in the development of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). HPV's involvement has alluded to better survival and prognosis in patients and suggests that different treatment strategies may be appropriate for them. Only some data on the epidemiology of HPV infection in the oropharyngeal, oral cavity, and laryngeal SCC exists in Europe. Thus, this study was carried out to investigate HPV's impact on HNSCC patient outcomes in the Irish population, one of the largest studies of its kind using consistent HPV testing techniques. A total of 861 primary oropharyngeal, oral cavity, and laryngeal SCC (OPSCC, OSCC, LSCC) cases diagnosed between 1994 and 2013, identified through the National Cancer Registry of Ireland (NCRI), were obtained from hospitals across Ireland and tested for HPV DNA using Multiplex PCR Luminex technology based in and sanctioned by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC). Both overall and cancer-specific survival were significantly improved amongst all HPV-positive patients together, though HPV status was only a significant predictor of survival in the oropharynx. Amongst HPV-positive patients in the oropharynx, surgery alone was associated with prolonged survival, alluding to the potential for de-escalation of treatment in HPV-related OPSCC in particular. Cumulatively, these findings highlight the need for continued investigation into treatment pathways for HPV-related OPSCC, the relevance of introducing boys into national HPV vaccination programs, and the relevance of the nona-valent Gardasil-9 vaccine to HNSCC prevention.

Influence of sex on survival rates of HPV-positive oropharyngeal cancers

The role of human papillomavirus (HPV) status for the prognosis of oropharyngeal cancers (OPCs) is discussed controversially. Here, we present an analysis of 144,969 head and neck cancer cases (ICD-10 codes: C00–C13) with a sub-cohort of 62,775 tumor cases of the oropharynx (C01, C09, and C10). To this end, de-identified data from electronic health records of about 60 healthcare organizations from 30 different countries were used. Odds ratios, hazard ratios (HRs), and Kaplan–Meier analyses were used to compare outcomes between different cancer entities of neoplasms of the base of the tongue (C01), of tonsils (C09), and of the oropharynx (C10) of women and men with and without HPV infection. To avoid the bias from different age distributions, the cohorts were balanced using propensity score matching. The 5-year survival rate for HPV-positive patients is somewhat better than that for HPV-negative patients, but for age- and sex-balanced cohorts, there remains no significant advantage for HPV-positive patients [HR, 1.126 (0.897–1.413)]. Looking at the different entities and HPV status for age-matched male and female patients separately, HPV is a significantly positive prognostic factor for female patients in some entities, whereas for male patients, it is only a positive prognostic factor for malignant neoplasms of oropharynx (C10) [HR, 1.077 (0.602–1.926)].

Population-Based Analysis of Trends in Incidence and Survival of Human Papilloma Virus-Related Oropharyngeal Cancer in a Low-Burden Region of Southern Europe

Introduction: Human papilloma virus (HPV)-related oropharyngeal carcinoma (OPC) can be considered a new subtype of cancer with different clinical characteristics and prognosis than that related to tobacco. Its incidence is increasing worldwide. Its epidemiology has been widely studied in areas such as North America and Northern Europe, but less is known in Southern Europe. Methods: We analyzed the epidemiology of OPC using the database from Girona’s population-based Cancer Registry, in the North-East of Spain, from 1994 to 2018. To analyze differences between neoplasms related to human papillomavirus or not, we determined the immunohistochemical expression of p16 in cases within four time periods: 1997–1999, 2003–2005, 2009–2011, and 2016–2018. Results: Oropharyngeal cancer incidence increased significantly from 2001 to 2018 with an Annual Percentage of Change (APC) of 4.1. OPC p16-positive cases increased with an APC of 11.1. In the most recent period, 2016–2018, 38.5% of OPC cases were p16-positive. European age-standardized incidence rate was 4.18 cases/100.000 inhabitants-year for OPC cancer and 1.58 for those p16-positive. Five-year observed survival was 66.3% for p16-positive OPC and 37.7% for p16-negative. Conclusions: Although with lower burden than in other regions, p16-positive oropharyngeal cancer is increasing in our area and has a better prognosis than p16-negative OPC.

Epidemiology and Patient Distribution of Oral Cavity and Oropharyngeal SCC in Canada

BACKGROUND

Oral cavity cancers (OCCs) and oropharyngeal cancers (OPCs) continue to be a major source of morbidity and mortality worldwide requiring the shared effort of numerous specialists. Tobacco and alcohol consumption have long been identified as risk factors for both OCC and OPC. In addition, human papilloma virus (HPV) is gaining its position as the main causal agent for OPC.

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study is to analyze the epidemiology of OCC and OPC in Canada.

METHODS

Data pertaining to the year of diagnosis, the patient's sex, age at the time of diagnosis, province/territory, city and postal code of oral cavity, and oropharyngeal malignancies diagnosed during 1992-2010 were extracted from the Canadian Cancer Registry and Le Registre Québécois du Cancer.

RESULTS

In total, 21 685 OCC cases and 15 965 OPC cases were identified from 1992 to 2010. Of those, 84.97% were oral cavity squamous cell carcinomas (SCCs), 88.10% were oropharyngeal SCCs, and both had a significant male predominance. While oral cavity SCC incidence stabilized over the study period, oropharyngeal SCC continued to increase. Oral cavity SCC incidence increased with age, while oropharyngeal SCC incidence peaked in the 50- to 59-year age group. Detailed geographic distribution analysis of patients at the provincial/territorial, city, and postal code levels identified several patient clusters.

CONCLUSIONS

This work highlights important epidemiological differences in trends between oral and oropharyngeal cancers, identifies high-incidence postal codes for each malignancy, and correlates incidence/mortality with known risk factors including alcohol/tobacco use and HPV infections, therefore providing a comprehensive understanding of epidemiology for these cancers in Canada.

Frequency of Epstein-Barr virus and human papilloma virus in patients with nasopharyngeal carcinoma

PURPOSE

Nasopharyngeal cancer is a type of malignancy originating from the epithelial cells lining the nasopharynx. In genetic and environmental factors, infection with Epstein-Barr virus is one of the particular factors held accountable for the etiopathogenesis. Human papillomavirus has been associated with cervical, anogenital, and oropharyngeal cancers. The aim of the present study is to demonstrate the presence and incidence of Epstein-Barr virus and human papillomavirus in patients with nasopharyngeal cancer.

METHODS

The information collected for these patients included age at the time of biopsy, gender, alcohol consumption and smoking, and histopathological type of nasopharyngeal cancer. Only patients for whom nasopharyngeal biopsy was performed as punch biopsy were included in the study. In situ hybridization was performed with formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded tissue sections for Human Papillomavirus and Epstein-Barr virus nucleic acids obtained by means of automated Ventana BenchMark Medical system RESULTS: Utilizing in situ hybridization with samples obtained from 56 patients diagnosed with nasopharyngeal cancer. Epstein-Barr virus was positive in 41 out of the 56 (73.2%) patients, while human papillomavirus was positive in 3 (5.4%), and 1 patient (1.8%) had co-infection. Thirty seven (90.2%) of the 41 patients positive for Epstein-Barr virus were Type-2 according to WHO, while 4 (9.8%) were Type-1. All three patients (100%) with Human Papillomavirus positivity were Type-2 according to WHO.

CONCLUSIONS

This study shows the close association between nasopharyngeal cancer and Epstein-Barr virus whereas such an association is not shown for Human Papillomavirus.

Oropharyngeal Squamous Cell Carcinoma: Human Papilloma Virus Coinfection with Streptococcus anginosus

Abstract Introduction: Human papilloma virus (HPV) and oral bacteria capable of acetaldehyde production from ethanol, such as Streptococcus anginosus, Prevotella melaninogenica, and Fusobacterium naviforme are among oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) infectious risk factors. Objective: Determine associations with HPV and S. anginosus, P. melaninogenica, and F. naviforme in patients with and without OSCC. Methods: Presence of HPV and HPV-16 was determined in 26 patients with OSCC and 26 without OSCC by conventional PCR and simultaneous presence of S. anginosus, P. melaninogenica, and F. naviforme quantification through q-PCR. Statistical analysis was carried out using Pearson’s X² and Student’s-t test. Results: Patients with OSCC had HPV and HPV-16 frequencies of 84% and 61.5%, respectively, in contrast for patients without OSCC frequencies were 34.6 and 30.7%. P. melaninogenica, and F. naviforme microorganisms were not present in any participant in this study. S. anginosus frequency in patients with OSC was 38.4% and in patients without OSCC was 30.7%. Patients with OSCC had S. anginosus + HPV co-infection at a 38.4% frequency and S. anginosus + HPV-16 at a 23.1% frequency. For individuals without OSCC S. anginosus + HPV co-infection was 3.8% and S. anginosus + HPV-16 3.8%. A greater frequency of S. anginosus + HPV co-infection and S. anginosus + HPV-16 was observed in patients with OSCC in comparison with individuals without OSCC, suggesting the importance of detecting HPV/HPV-16 and S. anginosus simultaneously in individuals at risk of developing OSCC

Association of human papillomavirus related squamous cell carcinomas of the oropharynx and cervix

Background

Human Papillomavirus (HPV) infection is well established in oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OPSCC) and cervical cancer (CC). However, the association between both HPV related cancers remains unclear. The purpose of this study was to investigate the association between HPV related cancers of the oropharynx and cervix.

Methods

A provincial cancer registry was used to retrospectively identify all patients diagnosed with OPSCC from 1997-2015. The standardized incidence ratio (SIR) of CC history in women with p16+/-OPSCC was measured.

Results

From 372 women with OPSCC included, the SIR of CC was significantly higher across all ages compared to the general population in Alberta, Canada (p < 0.0001).

Conclusions

Women with HPV/p16+ OPSCC have a significantly higher risk of CC compared to the general population.

Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) and Fertilization: A Mini Review

Human papilloma virus (HPV) is one of the most prevalent viral sexually transmitted diseases. The ability of HPV to induce malignancy in the anogenital tract and stomato-pharyngeal cavity is well documented. Moreover, HPV infection may also affect reproductive health and fertility. Although, the impact of HPV on female fertility has not been thoroughly studied it has been found also to have an impact on semen parameters. Relative information can be obtained from studies investigating the relationship between HPV and pregnancy success. Furthermore, there is an ongoing debate whether HPV alters the efficacy of assisted reproductive technologies. An association between HPV and assisted reproductive technologies (ART) programs has been reported. Nevertheless, due to conflicting data and the small number of existing studies further research is required. It remains to be clarified whether HPV detection and genotyping could be included in the diagnostic procedures in couples undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF)/intrauterine insemination (IUI) treatments. Vaccination of both genders against HPV can reduce the prevalence of HPV infection and eliminate its implications on human fertility. The aim of the present mini-review is to reiterate the association between HPV and human fertility through a systematic literature review.

Periodontitis and oral human papillomavirus infection among Hispanic adults

INTRODUCTION

Research on the association between periodontitis and oral human papilloma virus (HPV) infection is inconsistent. The cross-sectional association of severe periodontitis with oral HPV infection was investigated in a sample of Hispanic adults.

METHODS

Data from the 2014-2016 San Juan Overweight Adults Longitudinal Study (n = 740) was analyzed. Periodontitis assessment and self-collection of oral HPV samples followed the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey methodology. Periodontitis was defined using the Centers of Disease Control and Prevention/American Academy of Periodontology definition. HPV typing was performed using polymerase chain reaction. Multivariate logistic regression models were used to calculate odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs).

RESULTS

5.7% of participants had oral HPV infection and 20.3% had severe periodontitis. Adults with severe periodontitis had higher odds of oral HPV infection than those with none/mild disease (OR=2.9, 95% CI: 1.0-8.4, p < 0.05) in multivariable analysis. Adults with clinical attachment loss≥ 7 mm and pocket depth PD≥ 6 mm had 2- to 3-fold higher odds of HPV infection.

CONCLUSIONS

Severe periodontitis was positively associated to oral HPV infection. Longitudinal evaluation of periodontal inflammation's role in acquisition and persistence of oral HPV infection is needed, as periodontitis screening could identify individuals at increased risk of HPV-related oral malignancies.

Is surgical plume developing during routine LEEPs contaminated with high-risk HPV? A pilot series of experiments

INTRODUCTION

Growing evidence shows a causal role of high-risk humane papillomavirus (HPV) infections in the development of head and neck cancer. A recent case report shows two patients suffering from tonsillar cancer without any risk factors apart from their work as gynecologists doing laser ablations and loop electrosurgical excision procedures (LEEP). The aim of the present investigation is to evaluate whether surgical plume resulting from routine LEEPs of HSIL of the cervix uteri might be contaminated with the DNA of high-risk HPV.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The prospective pilot study is done at the Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics of the University of Lübeck, Germany. The primary outcome was defined as HPV subtype in resected cone and in surgical plume resulting from LEEPs of HSIL of the cervix uteri. Plume resulting from LEEPs was analyzed using a Whatman FTA Elute Indicating Card which was placed in the tube of an exhaust suction device used to remove the resulting aerosols. For detection of HPV and analysis of its subtype, the novel EUROArray HPV test was performed. Resected cones of LEEPs were evaluated separately for HPV subtypes.

RESULTS

Four samples of surgical plume resulting from routine LEEPs indicated contamination with high-risk HPV and showed the same HPV subtype as identified in the resected cones.

CONCLUSION

Surgical plume resulting from routine LEEPs for HSIL of the cervix uteri has the risk of contamination with high-risk HPV. Further investigations of infectiousness of surgical plume are necessary for evaluation of potential hazards to involved healthcare professionals.

Genetic profiles of different subsets of Merkel cell carcinoma show links between combined and pure MCPyV-negative tumors

Tumorigenesis in Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is driven by (1) clonal integration of the Merkel cell polyomavirus (MCPyV) in neoplastic cells and/or (2) genetic damage by ultraviolet (UV) light. A higher mutational burden, a UV-mutational signature, and many mutations in the TP53 and RB1 genes characterize the virus-negative subset. MCPyV-negative MCCs include combined (often squamous and neuroendocrine) and pure (neuroendocrine) tumors. Because a combined morphology could elude detection microscopically, we sought a genetic link between combined and pure virus-negative tumors. From a global cohort of 46 cases, 9 pure MCPyV-positive, 9 pure MCPyV-negative, and 10 combined MCPyV-negative MCCs were studied by genome-wide microarray in search of copy number aberrations. The entire cohort (n=46) was evaluated by next-generation sequencing for mutations in selected tumor suppressor genes and oncogenes. More copy number aberrations and a greater fraction of the genome were changed in combined and pure MCPyV-negative tumors relative to MCPyV-positive cases (P<.01 for all comparisons). No difference in these parameters was found between the 2 MCPyV-negative groups. Copy number loss of RB1 or an inactivating RB1 mutation (either or both) was common in combined (8/10, 80%) and pure (7/9, 78%) MCPyV-negative tumors but not MCPyV-positive cases (1/9, 11%). A similar trend was seen for TP53 (combined [2/10, 20%] and pure virus-negative tumors [5/9, 56%] showed gene copy number loss or mutations contrasted with pure virus-positive cases [0/9, 0%]). The shared genetic profiles of combined and pure MCPyV-negative tumors link these subsets and separate them from MCPyV-positive tumors.

The Mouse Papillomavirus Infection Model

The mouse papillomavirus (MmuPV1) was first reported in 2011 and has since become a powerful research tool. Through collective efforts from different groups, significant progress has been made in the understanding of molecular, virological, and immunological mechanisms of MmuPV1 infections in both immunocompromised and immunocompetent hosts. This mouse papillomavirus provides, for the first time, the opportunity to study papillomavirus infections in the context of a small common laboratory animal for which abundant reagents are available and for which many strains exist. The model is a major step forward in the study of papillomavirus disease and pathology. In this review, we summarize studies using MmuPV1 over the past six years and share our perspectives on the value of this unique model system. Specifically, we discuss viral pathogenesis in cutaneous and mucosal tissues as well as in different mouse strains, immune responses to the virus, and local host-restricted factors that may be involved in MmuPV1 infections and associated disease progression.

hrHPV E5 oncoprotein: immune evasion and related immunotherapies

The immune response is a key factor in the fight against HPV infection and related cancers, and thus, HPV is able to promote immune evasion through the expression of oncogenes. In particular, the E5 oncogene is responsible for modulation of several immune mechanisms, including antigen presentation and inflammatory pathways. Moreover, E5 was suggested as a promising therapeutic target, since there is still no effective medical therapy for the treatment of HPV-related pre-neoplasia and cancer. Indeed, several studies have shown good prospective for E5 immunotherapy, suggesting that it could be applied for the treatment of pre-cancerous lesions. Thus, insofar as the majority of cervical, oropharyngeal and anal cancers are caused by high-risk HPV (hrHPV), mainly by HPV16, the aim of this review is to discuss the immune pathways interfered by E5 oncoprotein of hrHPV highlighting the various aspects of the potential immunotherapeutic approaches.

A case-control study of non-AIDS-defining cancers in a prospective cohort of HIV-infected patients

INTRODUCTION

We present a case-control study of non-AIDS-defining cancers (NADCs) in a cohort of HIV-infected patients where we value the incidence, survival and prognostic factors of mortality.

METHODS

All NADCs diagnosis conducted from 2007 to 2011 in 7 hospitals were collected prospectively, with a subsequent follow up until December 2013. A control group of 221 HIV patients without a diagnosis of cancer was randomly selected.

RESULTS

Two hundred and twenty-one NADCs were diagnosed in an initial cohort of 7,067 HIV-infected patients. The most common were: hepatocellular carcinoma 20.5%, lung 18.7%, head and neck 11.9% and anal 10.5%. The incidence rate of NADCs development was 7.84/1,000 people-year. In addition to aging and smoking, time on ART (OR 1.11; 95% CI 1.05-1.17) and PI use (OR 1.72; 95% CI 1.0-2.96) increased the risk of developing a NADC. During follow-up 53.42% died, with a median survival time of 199.5 days. In the analysis of the prognostic factors of mortality the low values of CD4 at tumour diagnosis (OR 0.99; 95% CI 0.99-1.0; P=.033), and the previous diagnosis of AIDS (OR 2.06; 95% CI 1.08-3.92) were associated with higher mortality.

CONCLUSIONS

Predictors of NADCs in our cohort were age, smoking, CD4 lymphocytes and time on ART. Mortality is high, with NADC risk factors being low CD4 count and previous diagnosis of AIDS.

A Pilot Study into the Association between Oral Health Status and Human Papillomavirus-16 Infection

Background: Over the next 20 years, oropharyngeal cancers (OPC) will represent the majority of head and neck cancers (HNCs) in the United States. It is estimated that human papillomavirus (HPV) may account for as much as 70% to 80% of OPCs in North America and in certain parts of Europe. It is hence crucial to understand the disease risk factors and natural history of oral HPV infections. We hypothesized that poor oral health (by measures such as poor oral hygiene and periodontal disease) leads to a higher degree of oral HPV-16 infections within a patient cohort from a dental school clinic. This study aims to test this hypothesis and gauge possible disease associations before larger scale studies. Subjects and Methods: 223 participants were recruited in this study from the University of Queensland Dental School clinic. Clinical oral health parameters (such as oral hygiene measures and periodontal disease measurements) have been examined and determined by dental professionals. We have collected oral rinse samples from these volunteers. Results: 10 (4.5%) out of 223 participants were found to have HPV-16 DNA in their oral rinse samples using NB2 endpoint PCR and Sanger sequencing. Within the HPV-16 DNA positive subjects, 7 (70%) and 3 (30%) were associated with poor oral hygiene and periodontal disease, respectively. Conclusion: Our results show a trend towards a positive correlation between oral HPV-16 infection and poor clinical oral health status.

Anal intraepithelial neoplasia: A review of diagnosis and management

Anal intraepithelial neoplasia (AIN) is a premalignant lesion of the anal mucosa that is a precursor to anal cancer. Although anal cancer is relatively uncommon, rates of this malignancy are steadily rising in the United States, and among certain high risk populations the incidence of anal cancer may exceed that of colon cancer. Risk factors for AIN and anal cancer consist of clinical factors and behaviors that are associated with the acquisition and persistence of human papilloma virus (HPV) infection. The strongest HPV-associated risk factors are HIV infection, receptive anal intercourse, and high risk sexual behavior. A history of HPV-mediated genital cancer, which suggests infection with an oncogenic HPV strain, is another risk factor for AIN/anal cancer. Because progression of AIN to anal cancer is known to occur in some individuals over several years, screening for AIN and early anal cancer, as well as treatment of advanced AIN lesions, is reasonable in certain high-risk populations. Although randomized controlled trials evaluating screening and treatment outcomes are lacking, experts support routine screening for AIN in high risk populations. Screening is performed using anal cytological exams, similar to those performed in cervical cancer screening programs, along with direct tissue evaluation and biopsy via high resolution anoscopy. AIN can be treated using topical therapies such as imiquimod, 5-flurouracil, and trichloroacetic acid, as well as ablative therapies such as electrocautery and laser therapy. Reductions in AIN and anal cancer rates have been shown in studies where high-risk populations were vaccinated against the oncogenic strains of HPV. Currently, the CDC recommends both high-risk and average-risk populations be vaccinated against HPV infection using the quadrivalent or nonavalent vaccines. It is important for clinicians to be familiar with AIN and the role of HPV vaccination, particularly in high risk populations.

Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma in Three Related Kowari (Dasyuroides byrnei)

We report three kowari (Dasyuroides byrnei) with squamous cell carcinoma affecting the gingiva. These cases occurred in rapid succession in a related group of individuals of similar age, suggesting a familial tendency to this condition and a typical age of presentation. Other conditions affecting the oral cavity can mimic the appearance of oral squamous cell carcinoma in this species, and so knowledge of this condition can assist the veterinarian in making rapid decisions regarding prognosis and improving the welfare of these animals.

Cytokeratin 7 in Oropharyngeal Squamous Cell Carcinoma: A Junctional Biomarker for Human Papillomavirus-Related Tumors

Background: Human papillomavirus (HPV)-related oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) represents a distinct subgroup of head and neck tumors. We analyze the expression of cytokeratin 7, a junctional biomarker with a SEQIKA fragment, which stabilizes HPV-16 E7 transcripts, in oropharyngeal SCCs.Methods: Archived tumor specimens and epidemiologic data were collected from patients with oropharyngeal SCCs over 10 years. Briefly, DNA was extracted from tissue blocks, and HPV testing was carried out using SPF10 HPV PCR and INNO-LiPA HPV Genotyping. Immunohistochemical staining for CK7 and p16ink4a was performed on the Ventana BenchMark Ultra Immunostainer. Analysis was by light microscopy using the H-score. CK7 expression was correlated with epidemiologic data, p16ink4a positivity, and HPV status using SPSS.Results: CK7 expression was observed specifically and uniformly in the tonsillar crypt epithelium of normal tonsils and tumor specimens. There were 226 cases of oropharyngeal SCCs, with 70 demonstrating both HPV and p16 positivity. Of 216 cases evaluated for CK7, 106 demonstrated some positivity, whereas H-score > 60 was seen in 55 of these. CK7 H-score > 60 was significantly associated with tonsillar subsite and HPV and p16 positivity.Conclusions: An association between CK7 and HPV has been demonstrated. CK7-expressing tonsillar crypt cells potentially represent an oropharyngeal subsite susceptible to HPV-related SCC.Impact: Along with the cervix and anorectum, specific oropharyngeal expression of CK7 in a site predisposed to HPV-related tumors may suggest a role for CK7 in the pathogenesis of this subgroup of tumors. Further research is warranted to characterize the association between CK7 and HPV-related head and neck SCC. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 26(5); 702-10. ©2017 AACR.

Validation study of HPV DNA detection from stained FNA smears by polymerase chain reaction: Improving the diagnostic workup of patients with a tumor on the neck

BACKGROUND

Human papillomavirus (HPV)-related oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OPSCC) often presents with cystic cervical metastasis and a small primary tumor localized in the palatine tonsils or base of the tongue, which is diagnostically challenging. Testing for HPV DNA in fine-needle aspiration (FNA) smears from metastases may facilitate a targeted diagnostic workup for identifying the primary tumor. This study was designed to assess the ability to detect HPV DNA in FNA smears with polymerase chain reaction (PCR).

METHODS

May-Grünvald-Giemsa (MGG)-stained FNA smears from metastases and corresponding surgical specimens were collected from 71 patients with known HPV-positive OPSCC, 12 patients with oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC), 20 patients with branchial cleft cysts, and 20 patients with Warthin tumors. Thirty-eight patients with OPSCC and 7 patients with OSCC had FNA smears available from metastases and also surgical specimens from the primary tumor and the metastases. The scraped cell material from FNA smears and corresponding surgical specimens were analyzed for HPV DNA by PCR. p16 immunohistochemistry was performed on surgical specimens from the carcinomas.

RESULTS

HPV DNA was detected in 68 of the 71 FNA smears from OPSCC metastases. All corresponding surgical specimens from primary tumors (n = 71) and metastases (n = 38) were p16- and HPV DNA-positive. All the surgical specimens and corresponding FNA smears from OSCCs, Warthin tumors, and branchial cleft cysts were HPV DNA-negative. The sensitivity and specificity were 94.7% and 100%, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

The detection of HPV DNA in MGG-stained FNA smears by PCR is a valid method that could be implemented in routine clinical practice. Cancer Cytopathol 2016;124:820-7. © 2016 American Cancer Society.

A proportion of primary squamous cell carcinomas of the parotid gland harbour high-risk human papillomavirus

AIMS

In the current study, we aimed to examine primary parotid squamous cell carcinoma (ParSCC) for the presence of high-risk human papillomavirus (HR-HPV) and associated molecular alterations.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Eight cases of ParSCC were retrieved after a detailed clinicopathological review to exclude the possibility of metastasis and/or extension from another primary site. HR-HPV status was determined on the basis of immunohistochemistry (IHC) for p16 expression and chromogenic in-situ hybridization (CISH) for HR-HPV. All cases were genotyped with a multiplexed mass spectrometry assay interrogating 91 hotspot mutations in eight cancer-related genes (EGFR, KRAS, NRAS, BRAF, PIK3CA, AKT1, MEK1 and ERBB2), and studied by fluorescence in-situ hybridization for PTEN copy number alteration. Three of eight cases (37.5%) were positive for the presence of HR-HPV by CISH and p16 IHC. One of three (33%) HR-HPV-positive cases harboured a PTEN hemizygous deletion, and one (33%) HR-HPV-positive case harboured a PIK3CA E545K somatic mutation. No alteration of the PTEN-PI3K pathway was detected in HR-HPV-negative tumours. Over a median follow-up period of 66.2 months, only the patient with the HR-HPV-positive PIK3CA-mutated tumour died of his disease, the remaining seven patients being disease-free.

CONCLUSIONS

Given the established aetiological role of HR-HPV in other head and neck squamous cell carcinomas, it is likely that HR-HPV represents an oncogenic driver in the pathogenesis of more than one-third of ParSCCs. The presence of HR-HPV in ParSCC may be coupled with alterations in the PTEN-PI3K pathway. Further studies on HR-HPV and the molecular characterization of a larger number of ParSCCs are needed to determine the clinical significance of these findings.

Infectious Agents Associated with Head and Neck Carcinomas

In addition to traditional risk factors such as smoking habits and alcohol consumption, certain microbes also play an important role in the generation of head and neck carcinomas. Infection with high-risk human papillomavirus types is strongly associated with the development of oropharyngeal carcinoma, and Epstein-Barr virus appears to be indispensable for the development of non-keratinizing squamous cell carcinoma of the nasopharynx. Other viruses including torque teno virus and hepatitis C virus may act as co-carcinogens, increasing the risk of malignant transformation. A shift in the composition of the oral microbiome was associated with the development of oral squamous cell carcinoma, although the causal or casual role of oral bacteria remains to be clarified. Conversion of ethanol to acetaldehyde, a mutagenic compound, by members of the oral microflora as well as by fungi including Candida albicans and others is a potential mechanism that may increase oral cancer risk. In addition, distinct Candida spp. also produce NBMA (N-nitrosobenzylmethylamine), a potent carcinogen. Inflammatory processes elicited by microbes may also facilitate tumorigenesis in the head and neck region.

Beta-HPV types in patients with head and neck pathology and in healthy subjects

BACKGROUND

Human papillomaviruses (HPV) are a heterogeneous group of viruses classified into five genera. The beta-HPV type (beta-PV) infection is very common but mostly asymptomatic in immunocompetent individuals. However, beta-PVs play a role in Epidermodysplasia verruciformis and possibly in non-melanoma skin cancer. Head and neck cancer (HNC) is a common cancer type worldwide and high-risk alpha-PV involvement in HNC has been extensively studied but beta-PV types have rarely been the focus of such studies.

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the prevalence of beta-PV types in HNC, subjects with non-malignant or potentially pre-malignant oral lesions, and healthy controls.

STUDY DESIGN

The frequency of different beta-PVs in samples from oral (n=35) and oropharyngeal (n=35) cancer patients, gender- and age-matched healthy controls (n=70), and subjects with various non-malignant or potentially pre-malignant oral lesions (n=102) was assessed by a highly sensitive, bead-based, multiplex genotyping assay.

RESULTS

Overall, 54.8% of all tested samples contained at least one beta-PV type. Even though the correlation between types found in lavage and tissue specimens from cancer patients was low, there was a large statistically significant difference between oropharyngeal cancer patients and matched controls for HPV5 (P=0.003; OR=15.58) and between both oral (P=0.026; OR=5.7) and oropharyngeal cancer patients (P=0.002; OR=25.5) and controls for HPV122. In addition, there was no correlation between the prevalence of alpha and beta-PVs in the study patients.

CONCLUSION

The study provides new data on the prevalence of beta-PVs in HNC. HPV5 was found significantly associated with HNC as already observed by other studies. Additionally, the significant association of HPV122 with HNC might warrant further study as this type has not been extensively studied so far.

Clinical characteristics and outcomes of oropharyngeal carcinoma related to high-risk non-human papillomavirus16 viral subtypes

BACKGROUND

The majority of human papillomavirus (HPV)-related oropharyngeal carcinomas (OPCs) are associated with HPV genotype 16; however, OPC can be associated with other high-risk non-HPV16 genotypes.

METHODS

This was a retrospective analysis of patients with high-risk non-HPV16 OPC treated at a single tertiary institution. Sociodemographic and clinical information was obtained by chart review. HPV genotype was determined by polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Baseline data and outcomes were compared between HPV16 and high-risk non-HPV16 groups.

RESULTS

High-risk non-HPV16 genotypes accounted for 9% of HPV-related OPC. Of the 27 total high-risk non-HPV16 OPCs, HPV35 was most prevalent (48%). High-risk non-HPV16 OPC presented at a slightly higher age (p = .021) and higher clinical T classification (p = .008) compared to HPV16 OPC, but there was no significant survival difference.

CONCLUSION

Clinical characteristics of high-risk non-HPV16 OPC were largely consistent with those of HPV16 OPC. Additional multi-institutional studies will be required to demonstrate conclusively that the favorable prognosis of patients with HPV16 applies to all high-risk HPV types. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 38: 1330-1337, 2016.

Mouse papillomavirus MmuPV1 infects oral mucosa and preferentially targets the base of the tongue

In 2010, a new mouse papillomavirus, MmuPV1, was discovered in a colony of NMRI- Foxn1(nu)/Foxn1(nu) athymic mice in India. This finding was significant because it was the first papillomavirus to be found in a laboratory mouse. In this paper we report successful infections of both dorsal and ventral surfaces of the rostral tongues of outbred athymic nude mice. We also report the observation that the base of the tongue, the area of the tongue often targeted by cancer-associated high-risk papillomavirus infections in humans, is especially susceptible to infection. A suitable animal model for the study of oral papillomavirus infections, co-infections, and cancers has long been sought. The work presented here suggests that such a model is now at hand.

Expression of prion protein is closely associated with pathological and clinical progression and abnormalities of p53 in head and neck squamous cell carcinomas

Prion protein (PrP) is a glycosyl-phosphatidylinositol (GPI)-anchored membrane protein that functions as a unique pathogenic agent in transmissible spongiform encephalopathy (TSE). In the past decade, overexpression of PrP was observed in a number of human malignant tumors, such as gastric, breast and pancreatic cancer. However, the role of PrP expression in squamous cell carcinoma is rarely documented. To screen PrP expression in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCCs), the paraffin-embedded specimens of 92 pathologically diagnosed HNSCCs were assessed by PrP-specific immunohistochemistry (IHC). A total of 55.43% (51/92) of the tested carcinoma tissues were PrP-positive. The rate of positivity and the staining intensity of PrP were closely related with the pathological degree of the HNSCCs; a higher rate of PrP expression was noted in the group of poorly differentiated cancers. PrP-positivity rates increased along with the progression of the clinical grade of the carcinomas. Further evaluation of the associations between PrP expression and the data concerning p53 abnormalities and human papillomavirus (HPV) infection in these samples as previously described, revealed that PrP-positive staining was more frequently detected in the tissues with p53-positive accumulation and the wild-type TP53 gene. The patients with a proline (Pro) polymorphism in SNP72 of TP53 showed significantly higher PrP-positive rates than those with arginine (Arg). No notable difference in PrP expression was identified between the HPV-positive and HPV-negative group. These data indicate a close association of PrP expression with clinical and histological differentiation of HNSCCs, as well as abnormalities of p53.

Genotyping, levels of expression and physical status of human papilloma virus in oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma among Colombian patients

INTRODUCTION

One of the risk factors for squamous cell oropharyngeal carcinoma is infection with the human papilloma virus (HPV), with prevalences that vary depending on the geographical region. 

OBJECTIVE

To identify the most frequent HPV viral types in oropharyngeal cancer, the levels of expression and the physical condition of the viral genome. 

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Forty-six patients were included in the study from among those attending head and neck surgical services in the cities of Bogotá, Manizales and Bucaramanga. In the histopathological report all study samples were characterized as oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma. DNA extraction was subsequently performed for HPV genotyping and to determine the physical state of the viral genome, as well as RNA to determine viral transcripts using real-time PCR. 

RESULTS

HPV prevalence in tumors was 21.74% (n=10) and the most common viral type was HPV-16 (nine cases). Viral expression for HPV-16 was low (one of 11 copies) and the predominant physical state of the virus was mixed (eight cases), with disruption observed at the E1 - E2 binding site (2525 - 3720 nucleotides). 

CONCLUSION

The prevalence of HPV associated with oropharyngeal carcinoma among the Colombian study population was 21.7%, which is relatively low. The most frequent viral type was HPV-16, found in a mixed form and with low expression of E7, possibly indicating a poor prognosis for these patients.

Sexual behavior, HPV knowledge, and association with head and neck cancer among a high-risk group

OBJECTIVES

To understand knowledge of HPV, its association with head and neck cancer (HNC), and source of knowledge in a high-risk population.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A cross-sectional survey was conducted among attendees at a Drag Racing event in East St. Louis in 2013.

RESULTS

Only 29.9% knew that HPV definitely increases the risk of developing HNC, 42.4% thought HPV was same as HIV, and only 25.1% received HPV information from a healthcare practitioner. Participants that thought number of sexual partners did not increase risk of developing HPV were more likely to have low knowledge scores (r=.74, p<.001). There were significant associations between HNC knowledge, number of sexual partners, age at initial coitus, and risk perception; and those who did not think having more sexual partner increases the chance of developing HPV infection were 33times more likely to have lower knowledge of the association between HPV and HNC (OR=33.27; 95% CI: 16.34, 67.74).

CONCLUSIONS

Knowledge of HPV and its association with head and neck cancer has significant gaps in this population, with a large number of the population accessing HPV information from sources other than a healthcare provider.

HPV16-E7 expression in squamous epithelium creates a local immune suppressive environment via CCL2- and CCL5- mediated recruitment of mast cells

Human Papillomavirus (HPV) 16 E7 protein promotes the transformation of HPV infected epithelium to malignancy. Here, we use a murine model in which the E7 protein of HPV16 is expressed as a transgene in epithelium to show that mast cells are recruited to the basal layer of E7-expressing epithelium, and that this recruitment is dependent on the epithelial hyperproliferation induced by E7 by inactivating Rb dependent cell cycle regulation. E7 induced epithelial hyperplasia is associated with increased epidermal secretion of CCL2 and CCL5 chemokines, which attract mast cells to the skin. Mast cells in E7 transgenic skin, in contrast to those in non-transgenic skin, exhibit degranulation. Notably, we found that resident mast cells in E7 transgenic skin cause local immune suppression as evidenced by tolerance of E7 transgenic skin grafts when mast cells are present compared to the rejection of mast cell-deficient E7 grafts in otherwise competent hosts. Thus, our findings suggest that mast cells, recruited towards CCL2 and CCL5 expressed by epithelium induced to proliferate by E7, may contribute to an immunosuppressive environment that enables the persistence of HPV E7 protein induced pre-cancerous lesions.