Role of human papillomavirus in the development of head and neck squamous cell carcinomas

Abstract

Objective To review the literature on the role of oncogenic human papillomaviruses (HPVs) in the carcinogenesis of the head and neck mucosa.

Material and Methods Molecular and epidemiological studies concerning the high-risk HPV types and their role in carcinogenesis in the head and neck region were screened.

Results Different studies revealed that: (i) 15–25% of head and neck squamous cell carcinomas (HNSCCs) are clonally associated with high risk HPV types (type 16); (ii) the oropharynx and particularly the tonsils are the most susceptible sites; (iii) patients with HPV-positive tumours present with more advanced stages of disease, are relatively younger, do not have extravagant tobacco and alcohol intake and seem to have a better survival; (iv) HPV-positive tumours are characterized by poor differentiation grade and a basaloid appearance; and (v) HPV-positive tumours exhibit integrated HPV DNA, wild-type p53, pRb downregulation and overexpression of p16^INK4A.

Conclusion Taken together, these data support the view that HPV-harbouring HNSCC can be considered a discrete tumour entity with, moreover, a favourable prognosis. Screening of patients, especially those with tonsillar cancers, for the presence of HPV may help to further optimize treatment protocols and to provide more accurate prognostic information.

Keywords:

• fluorescence in-situ hybridization
• human papillomavirus
• p53
• p16INK4A
• polymerase chain reaction
• retinoblastoma tumour suppressor protein
• survival
• tonsillar cancer

Hafkamp HC, Manni JJ, Speel EJM. Role of human papillomavirus in the development of head and neck squamous cell carcinomas. Acta Otolaryngol 2004; 124: 520–526.

Hafkamp HC, Manni JJ, Speel EJM. Role of human papillomavirus in the development of head and neck squamous cell carcinomas. Acta Otolaryngol 2004; 124: 520–526.