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Human papilloma virus (HPV) is known as the main cause of cervical cancer. Data also indicate its role in head–neck cancer, especially oropharyngeal cancer. The correlation between high-risk HPV and oral cancer is still controversial. HPV-related lesions of the oral cavity are frequent and, in most cases, benign. The primary aim of this study was to establish if there is a different follow-up necessity between HPV-positive compared to HPV-negative oral lesions. The secondary aim was to evaluate the recurrence of HPV-related lesions. All patients who underwent a surgical procedure of oral biopsy between 2018 and 2022, with ulterior histopathological examination and HPV typing, were examined. A total of 230 patients were included: 75 received traumatic fibroma as diagnosis, 131 HPV-related lesions, 9 proliferative verrucous leukoplakia, and 15 leukoplakia. The frequency and period of follow-up varied in relation to HPV positivity and diagnosis. This study confirms what has already been reported by other authors regarding the absence of recommendations of follow-up necessity in patients with oral mucosal lesions. However, the data demonstrate that there was a statistically significant difference in the sample analyzed regarding the follow-up of HPV-positive vs. HPV-negative patients. It also confirms the low recurrence frequency of HPV-related oral lesions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection accounts for more than 70% of oropharyngeal cancers but only a small proportion of oral cavity cancers. This study aimed to investigate the presence of HPV DNA in oral diseases to understand better the possible correlation between oral lesions and HPV infections. Methods: This was a cross-sectional study of 99 adult patients seen for the evaluation of oral diseases. All patients received an oral biopsy and histopathologic examination and a brush biopsy for HPV-DNA detection and genotyping by real-time polymerase chain reaction. Immunohistochemistry was used to assess p16INK4a expression. Results: HPV was identified in 15 of 99 (15.2%) patients (males, 66.6%). Patients with oral leukoplakia (OL) (46.6%), followed by patients with oral lichen planus (OLP) (33.3%) had the highest rate of HPV infection, with a predilection for the buccal mucosa (17.5%). Most patients with high-risk HPV infections had OLP (4/10, 40.0%), whereas most of the patients with low-risk HPV infections had nonreactive epithelial hyperkeratosis (3/6, 50.0%). Among all benign lesions, 19.0% were positive for any HPV infection. One patient with OL showing mild epithelial dysplasia had a positive p16INK4a expression. Conclusions: The highest rate of HPV infection was in male patients, patients with OL and OLP, and conditions affecting the buccal mucosa. Larger studies are needed to elucidate the role of HPV in the development of these conditions.

The carcinogenicity of HPV infection in the anogenital and oropharyngeal regions is broadly accepted. The aim of the study was to define risk factors for anal and oral HPV infections in high-risk patients with biopsy-proven severe cervical lesions (CIN2+). Altogether immunocompetent 473 females with CIN2+ were categorized into the study group and another 245 women into the control group. The strongest risk factor for anal HPV infection was the presence of cervical HPV infection (p < 0.001). Furthermore, ten or more lifetime sexual partners (p = 0.013), a sexual non-coital contact with the anal area (p < 0.001), and actively practicing anal-penetrative intercourse (p < 0.001) were significantly associated with anal HPV. A history of genital warts in the woman (p = 0.010) and the presence of genital warts in the male partner (p = 0.029) were found statistically significant for the risk of oral HPV infection. Our data suggest that the presence of HPV infection, especially high-risk genotypes, in one anatomical site poses the greatest risk for HPV infection in another anatomical site. The cervix is the main reservoir of infection, but the risk factors for anal and oral HPV infections are dissimilar according to different anatomical distances and more complex routes of transmission. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The oral transmission of HPV and, consequently, the risk of oral cancer has increased in the last years. Oral sex has often been implicated among the risk factors for oral HPV infections, however, there is still no consensus on these topics, nor on the relationship between genital and oral HPV infections. The present study aimed to evaluate the coexistence of papilloma virus, at the levels of the oral and genital mucosa, in women with a histologically confirmed HPV lesions (and a positive HPV test) at the genital level and a negative HPV control group. We also evaluated how some risk factors, such as smoking, the number of partners, age, and sexual habits can influence the possible presence of the virus itself in the oropharynx of the same women. In total, 117 unvaccinated women aged between 18 and 52 were enrolled. We found that the prevalence of oral HPV infection was high among the women with concomitant genital HPV infection (22%) compared to the HPV-negative women (0%), and the estimated odds ratio was 17.36 (95% CI: 1.02, 297.04). In none of the women with oral HPV did we find any relevant clinical lesions. The potential risk factors for HPV infections in the oropharynx and genitals were analyzed based on questionnaire responses. A multivariate analysis showed that genital HPV infections were significantly associated with a number of sexual partners > 10 (OR 138.60, 95% CI: 6.04–3181.30, p < 0.001), but the data also referred to having between 3–5 or 6–10 partners as being significant, as were a high level of education (OR 6.24, 95% CI: 1.67–4.23.26 p = 0.003), a frequency of sexual intercourse >10 (OR 91.67 95% CI: 3.20–2623.52, p = 0.004), oral sex (OR 6.16, 95% CI: 1.22–31.19, p = 0.014), and >20 cigarettes/day (OR 6.09 95% CI: 1.21–30.61, p = 0.014). Furthermore, being "separate" and having multiple sexually transmitted diseases were also significantly associated with genital HPV infection. In contrast, oral HPV infections were significantly associated with women aged 36 to 50 years (OR 27.38, 95% CI: 4.37–171.37; p = 0.000202) and oral sex (OR 95.5, 95% CI: 5.13–1782.75, p = 0.001126).Additionally, being separate, being cohabitant, lifetime sexual partners of >10, 3–5 lifetime sexual partners, <20 years of age, >10 sexual intercourse per month, occasional and regular anal sex, >20 cigarettes per day, a history of sexually transmitted disease (herpes and multiple), and having a history of genital warts were significant. Screening and early diagnosis are considered to be practically unfeasible for this category of cancer, given the lack of visible lesions; the 9-valent HPV vaccine remains the only means that could help to successfully counter the growing incidence of oral squamous cell carcinoma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The carcinogenicity of HPV infection in the anogenital and oropharyngeal regions is broadly accepted. The aim of the study was to define risk factors for anal and oral HPV infections in high-risk patients with biopsy-proven severe cervical lesions (CIN2+). Altogether immunocompetent 473 females with CIN2+ were categorized into the study group and another 245 women into the control group. The strongest risk factor for anal HPV infection was the presence of cervical HPV infection (p < 0.001). Furthermore, ten or more lifetime sexual partners (p = 0.013), a sexual non-coital contact with the anal area (p < 0.001), and actively practicing anal-penetrative intercourse (p < 0.001) were significantly associated with anal HPV. A history of genital warts in the woman (p = 0.010) and the presence of genital warts in the male partner (p = 0.029) were found statistically significant for the risk of oral HPV infection. Our data suggest that the presence of HPV infection, especially high-risk genotypes, in one anatomical site poses the greatest risk for HPV infection in another anatomical site. The cervix is the main reservoir of infection, but the risk factors for anal and oral HPV infections are dissimilar according to different anatomical distances and more complex routes of transmission.

Current knowledge about human papillomavirus (HPV) infection in psoriasis patients treated with biologics is limited. In this study we evaluated the prevalence of oral and genital HPV infection in psoriasis patients treated with biologics or topical therapy for at least 6 months. The presence of HPV DNA in oral rinse and genital smears was evaluated. In total, 267 patients who met the inclusion criteria and agreed to participate were enrolled: 110 (41.2%) on topical therapy, 84 (31.5%) on anti‐TNF‐alpha therapy, 31 (11.6%) on anti‐IL‐12/23 therapy and 42 (15.7%) on anti‐IL‐17 therapy. The presence of genital HPV infection was detected in 34.6% of men receiving anti‐TNF‐α treatment, in 25.0% of patients on anti‐IL‐12/23 and 18.8% of patients on anti‐IL‐17 therapy. The difference in prevalence was not statistically different from men on topical treatment (26.3%). Prevalence of oral HPV infection was higher across all of the biologic groups (11.9% for anti‐TNF‐α, 12.9% for anti‐IL‐12/23 and 19.0% for anti‐IL‐17) compared to patients on topical therapy (7.3%), but statistically significant only for anti‐IL‐17 (p < 0.05). The presence of oral HPV infection in patients treated with biologics was significantly higher (44.0%) in patients on long‐term biologic treatment (>8 years) compared to patients taking biologics for a shorter period (9.1%; p < 0.01). Our results suggest that patients on biologics for psoriasis have a higher prevalence of oral HPV infection compared to patients on topical treatment. Long‐term treatment with biologics seems to be associated with a higher prevalence of oral HPV infection, independent of previous conventional immunosuppressive therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Although cervicovaginal microbiome has been associated with cervical human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, little is known regarding the association of oral microbiome with oral HPV, a cause of oropharyngeal cancer.Methods: A cross-sectional analysis of 495 participants from the Men and Women Offering Understanding of Throat HPV study was conducted. 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing was performed on saliva samples. HPV DNA in oral rinse samples was tested. Associations of oral microbiome diversity, taxon abundance, and predicted functional pathways with oral HPV were assessed, adjusting for age, race/ethnicity, education, human immunodeficiency virus, current smoking, and sequencing batch.Results: Participants with oral HPV (n = 68) compared with those without HPV had similar oral microbiome alpha-diversity yet different beta-diversity (Bray-Curtis distance for bacterial taxa, P = .009; functional pathways, P = .02). Participants with oral HPV had higher abundance of Actinomycetaceae, Prevotellaceae, Veillonellaceae, Campylobacteraceae, Bacteroidetes, and lower abundance of Gemellaceae (false discovery rate <0.10). We also found differential functional potential of oral microbiome by oral HPV status: xenobiotic biodegradation-related pathways were less abundant among participants with oral HPV, suggesting potential xenobiotic-induced toxic effects with implications for HPV susceptibility.Conclusions: Our findings suggest a shift in oral microbiome community structure, composition, and functional potential between individuals with and without oral HPV. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Prior studies have demonstrated differences in oral human papillomavirus (HPV) prevalence by sex and race/ethnicity. In this study, we examined the impact of vaccination on these disparities. Methods We examined participants aged 18–59 years in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey from 2011 to 2016 who reported their HPV vaccination status and submitted an adequate oral sample (N = 9437). Oral prevalence of HPV, grouped by any, low-risk, high-risk, 4 valent (4v) HPV, 9 valent (9v) HPV, and nonvaccine types, was examined by sex, race/ethnicity, and vaccination status. Binary logistic regression was used to estimate prevalence ratios by vaccination status. Multivariable logistic regression models controlled for age, sex, and race/ethnicity. Results The prevalence of any, nonvaccine, low-risk, high-risk, 4vHPV, and 9vHPV types was higher among males than females, even among vaccinated participants. Examination of racial/ethnic differences demonstrated differences in all HPV groups among unvaccinated males and among low-risk types in females. In all but the 2 vaccine-type groups, the prevalence of oral HPV was notably higher among Black males compared with other groups. Significant differences were not observed by race/ethnicity among vaccinated males or females. Conclusions Males tested positive for oral HPV more frequently than females, even among those vaccinated. This may have resulted from a lower frequency of males being vaccinated before initiating oral sex than females. Vaccination of males at the recommended age, therefore, may decrease differences in oral HPV by sex. Racial/ethnic differences were observed only in unvaccinated individuals, suggesting these disparities will decrease as more individuals are vaccinated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is considered to be one of the viral infections associated with cancers and other diseases. HPV is detected asymptomatically in the oral mucosa. The presence of human papillomavirus in the oral mucosa appears to be closely associated with a series of benign and malign oral lesions. The aim of this paper is to report the Italian experience in applying translational protocols, using new technologies and multidisciplinary strategies in Human Papilloma virus detection and treatment. The “HPV board: a future without papilloma virus” project was born, promoted by CNEL (Italian Council of Economics and Labor) with the collaboration of numerous scientific societies to commonly approach to public knowledge of HPV-related oral lesions and their clinical management. The preliminary results are related to the assessment of the proof-of-concept of this new project. More in details, “HPV Board” is a project that plans the presence of a working group, made up of otolaryngologists, dentists, oral and maxillofacial surgeons, in close contact with gynecologists, oncologists and pediatricians; this working group manages to combine very transversal skills, in order to promote primary prevention projects, early diagnosis and adequate therapies. The “HPV BOARD” project will give the opportunity to increase the attention of patients and doctors on the early diagnosis of oncological diseases dependent on infection by the infectious agent HPV. In this panorama, dentists will have the role of “first sentinel” of public health because oral health is an indicator, too often overlooked, for the prevention of numerous diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Human papillomavirus (HPV)–attributable oropharyngeal cancer (HPV-OPC) incidence is increasing in many high-income countries among men. Factors associated with oral HPV persistence, the precursor of HPV-OPC, are unknown. Data from the HPV Infection in Men (HIM) Study, which followed participants >7 years, were utilized to examine rates of persistence and associated factors. Methods Oral gargle samples from 3095 HIM study participants were HPV genotyped using the SPF10 PCR-DEIA-LiPA25 assay (DDL Diagnostic Laboratory). Oral HPV persistence for individual and grouped high-risk HPV types among 184 men positive for any high-risk HPV at their oral baseline visit was assessed at 6-month intervals. Factors associated with grouped high-risk HPV/HPV16 persistence were examined using logistic regression. Kaplan-Meier curves were constructed to examine median time to HPV clearance overall, and by selected risk factors. Results Among the 7 HPV vaccine types, HPV33 had the longest median duration (7.6 months) followed by HPV16 and HPV45 (6.4 months). 10–30% of oral high-risk HPV infections persisted ≥24 months. Six months' persistence of oral high-risk HPV infections was positively associated with age and gingivitis and negatively with lifetime number of sexual partners, while 12 months' persistence was only inversely associated with lifetime number of sexual partners. Oral HPV16 persistence was positively associated with baseline HPV16 L1 antibody status. Conclusions Eighteen percent of HPV16 infections persisted beyond 24 months, potentially conferring higher risk of HPV-OPC among these men. Older age appears to be an important factor associated with oral high-risk HPV persistence. More studies among healthy men are required to understand the progression of oral HPV infection to HPV-OPC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Compared to cervical cancer, little is known about human papillomavirus (HPV)-driven oropharyngeal cancer and their cofactors. Here, we investigated potential associations between Chlamydia trachomatis (CT) and Neisseria gonorrhoeae (NG) with oral HPV and HPV persistence, which are known cofactors in cervical carcinogenesis, and also play a role in HPV-driven oropharyngeal cancer. Saliva samples (n  = 547) from 312 people were tested for CT and NG and whom had previously been tested for oral HPV infection in a longitudinal study. Eight participants were positive for CT (2.6%) and one for NG (0.3%). Six of these nine participants were also positive for oral HPV in at least one of their samples. We found no significant associations between HPV, CT, or NG infection in the saliva samples analyzed. These preliminary data suggest CT and NG have little influence on oral HPV-positivity and persistence in a general population. However, larger studies focusing on 'at risk' population cohorts are necessary to assess potential associations between oral sexually transmissible infections and oral HPV infections, and their outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A 45-year-old male patient went to our observation for a white lesion in the left lower gum. At the anamnesis he reported previous diagnosis of oral erosive and genital lichen planus (discovered 2 and 12 years before respectively) and the excision of 2 small oral squamous papillomas 2 year ago. A PCR-real time test using a saliva sample was carried out a year ago, but it did not confirm the presence of the HPV DNA. During the clinical examination we observed a white not scrapable lesion of 2.2cm in the vestibular gum around the teeth 3.6-3.7. The lesion is not linked with a traumatic event and we decided to make an incisional biopsy to verify if it was another injury linked to the spread of oral erosive lichen planus or a new entity. The histological examination confirmed a diagnosis of oral HPV lesion, precisely squamous papilloma, but in-situ hybridation did not find HPV DNA. The presence of a mild dysplasia with unaffected margins was also confirmed. At our first knowledge, this is the first documented case in literature of an oral squamous papilloma with a keratin-like appearance, rather than exophytic and/or cauliflower form. The differential diagnosis could be with oral lichen planus, leukoplakia or verruca vulgaris. The patient was advised of the risk of malignancy connected with the simultaneous presence of oral erosive lichen planus and HPV lesions.

Objectives: This study estimated the prevalence, genotype distribution, and the factors associated with oral human papillomavirus (HPV) in people who use crack-cocaine (PWUCC) in a remote Brazilian region. Materials and methods: This cross-sectional study used community-based snowball sampling methods for participant recruitment. Socio-demographic, economic, drug use, and health-related information was collected from 278 PWUCC in the cities of Bragança and Capanema in northern Brazil. HPV diagnosis and genotyping were performed by a real-time polymerase chain reaction. Logistic regression identified the factors independently associated with oral HPV. Results: In total, 111 (39.9%) PWUCC had HPV DNA. Several genotypes were identified, some of them with high oncogenic potential. Crack-cocaine use ≥40 months, unprotected sex, more than 10 sexual partners in the last 12 months, oral sex, exchange of sex for money or illicit drugs, oral mucosa lesions, not having access to public health services, and the absence of vaccination against HPV was all associated with HPV DNA. Conclusions: This study identified important epidemiological characteristics of oral HPV infection among PWUCC—a highly marginalized risk population—underlining the high prevalence of oral HPV with oncogenic potential and the urgent need for control and prevention measures, especially vaccination against this virus. Clinical relevance: It is necessary to understand the prevalence and risk factors of oral HPV in risk populations as people who use crack-cocaine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Oral and pharyngeal cancer (OPC) is a frequent type of cancer in Puerto Rico, with the risk being higher in men relative to women. We assessed differences in OPC risk factors implicated in these sex disparities. Methods: We analyzed data of 740 adult participants (40-65 years) from the San Juan Overweight Adults Longitudinal Study (SOALS). A comprehensive questionnaire was administered to collect information on sociodemographic characteristics, cigarette smoking, binge drinking, oral high-risk HPV infection, fruit and vegetable consumption, sexual behavior, and oral hygiene practices. A full-mouth periodontal examination was also performed. Sixteen OPC known and potential risk factors were evaluated. Crude and adjusted prevalence ratio (PR) estimates for individual OPC risk factors, by sex, were calculated using log-binomial regression. Results: Compared to women, men had significantly increased prevalence of several OPC risk factors including current smoking (PR: 1.91, 95% Confidence interval [CI]: 1.35-2.70), binge drinking (PR: 1.92, 95% CI: 1.31-2.84), and severe periodontitis (PR: 2.05, 95% CI: 1.47-2.85). Conclusions: Men were significantly more likely than women to have risk factors for OPC. Cancer prevention and control efforts should focus on sex-specific interventions that help reduce this disparity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Incidence of human papillomavirus (HPV) attributable oropharyngeal cancers (OPCs) has been increasing globally, especially among men in high‐income countries. There is a lack of studies comparing oral HPV prevalence by age and country among healthy men. The purpose of our study was to assess oral HPV prevalence by country and age. Participants of the HPV Infection in Men Study (HIM), a cohort of 3,098 healthy men from São Paulo, Brazil, Cuernavaca, Mexico and Tampa, USA, were studied. Oral HPV prevalence and type distribution were assessed using the SPF10 PCR‐DEIA‐LiPA25 system. The prevalence of any HPV in Brazil, Mexico and the US was 8.7% (95% CI: 7.1%, 10.4%), 10.0% (95% CI: 8.3%, 12.1%) and 7.6% (95% CI: 5.9%, 9.5%), respectively, while the prevalence of high‐risk HPV was 5.3% (95% CI: 4.1%, 6.7%), 7.3% (95% CI: 5.7%, 9.0%) and 5.4% (95% CI: 4.0%, 7.0%), respectively. No significant differences in prevalence of grouped HPV types were observed by country despite significant differences in sexual behaviors. However, the age‐specific prevalence of oral HPV differed by country. Brazilian (6.0% [95% CI: 3.4%, 9.7%]) and Mexican (9.2% [95% CI: 5.6%, 14.0%]) participants had peak high‐risk HPV prevalence among men aged 41–50 years whereas the US participants had peak prevalence at ages 31–40 years (11.0% [95% CI: 6.4%, 17.3%]). In conclusion, oral HPV prevalence was low with no difference in overall prevalence observed by country. Factors associated with the differences in oral HPV age‐patterning by country and sexual orientation require further study. What's new? This study reports the prevalence of oral human papillomavirus among 3,098 HPV Infection in Men (HIM) Study participants residing in Brazil, Mexico and the United States. In this study, we show that although sexual behaviors varied widely across countries, oral HPV prevalence did not significantly differ by country. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: The purpose of the present study was to examine differences in oral human papillomavirus (HPV) prevalence among adults based on HPV vaccination status and periodontitis status.Methods: Data from 2011 to 2012 and 2013 to2014 National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys (n = 822) were retrieved in order to predict the prevalence of oral HPV in 24 separate demographic groups (age by sex by race) based on the following characteristics: HPV vaccination status and periodontitis status. A multiple logistic regression model, controlling for gender, age, race, smoking behavior, alcohol consumption, and sexual partners, was calculated in order to generate prevalence estimates.Results: Median predicted oral HPV prevalence rates per 1,000 in 2011-2012 were highest among nonvaccinated individuals with periodontitis [median ( x˜ ) = 31.62, interquartile range (IQR) = 102.97], followed by nonvaccinated individuals without periodontitis ( x˜ = 24.63, IQR = 81.84), vaccinated individuals with periodontitis ( x˜ = 18.40, IQR = 62.27), and vaccinated individuals without periodontitis ( x˜ = 14.29, IQR = 48.96). Median predicted oral HPV prevalence rates per 1,000 in 2013-2014 were highest among nonvaccinated individuals with periodontitis ( x˜ = 9.50, IQR = 33.02), followed by nonvaccinated individuals without periodontitis ( x˜ = 7.37, IQR = 25.76), vaccinated individuals with periodontitis ( x˜ = 5.48, IQR = 19.27), and vaccinated individuals without periodontitis ( x˜ = 4.25, IQR = 14.98).Conclusions: Interventions that integrate primary care and dental care are needed, given increased risk for oral HPV among unvaccinated individuals with periodontitis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Various risk factors for oral human papillomavirus (HPV) infections have been described, including tobacco smoking and sexual behavior. However, less is known about the influence of oral health on such infections. The present study aimed to determine a possible association between the quality of oral hygiene and the presence of oral HPV.Methods: In a prospective analysis, the approximal plaque index (API), the gingival bleeding index (GBI), and the lifetime number of extracted teeth was determined in 187 patients. Additionally, the presence of oral low-risk and/or high-risk HPV was investigated by brush smear testing in all participants.Results: Seventy-four patients had an API < 20%, 84 participants showed an API of 20-40%, and in 29 cases, an API > 40% was recorded. Ninety-six patients presented a GBI < 20%, 75 had a GBI of 20-40%, and 16 showed a GBI > 40%. One hundred four patients had experienced one to three extractions, and 36 had lost more than three teeth. Thirty-nine participants had a positive oral HPV testing (27 high-risk HPV, 26 low-risk HPV, 14 low- and high-risk HPV). A higher API respectively GBI and a greater number of extracted teeth were significantly correlated with the presence of high-risk HPV. The presence of low-risk HPV was significantly higher in patients with API > 40% and GBI > 40% (OR 7.89). Similar results were found regarding the number of extracted teeth.Conclusion: The present analysis confirms a relationship between the quality of oral hygiene, determined by objective markers. Thus, improvement of oral health may reduce the incidence of oral HPV infection.Clinical significance: The present article investigates the relationship between oral hygiene and the presence of oral HPV. As a significant correlation between these two factors could be recorded, improvement of oral hygiene may reduce actively the incidence of oral HPV. Thereby, good oral hygiene may contribute oral cancer prevention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The incidence of HPV-related head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HPV-HNSCC) is increasing. Oral samples are easy and non-invasive to collect, but the diagnostic accuracy of oral HPV detection methods for classifying HPV-positive HNSCC tumors has not been well explored.Methods: In a systematic review, we identified eight studies of HNSCC patients meeting our eligibility criteria of having: (1) HPV detection in oral rinse or oral swab samples, (2) tumor HPV or p16 testing, (3) a publication date within the last 10 years (January 2007-May 2017, as laboratory methods change), and (4) at least 15 HNSCC cases. Data were abstracted from each study and a meta-analysis performed to calculate sensitivity and specificity.Results: Eight articles meeting inclusion criteria were identified. Among people diagnosed with HNSCC, oral HPV detection has good specificity (92%, 95% CI = 82-97%) and moderate sensitivity (72%, 95% CI = 45-89%) for HPV-positive HNSCC tumor. Results were similar when restricted to studies with only oropharyngeal cancer cases, with oral rinse samples, or testing for HPV16 DNA (instead of any oncogenic HPV) in the oral samples.Discussion: Among those who already have HNSCC, oral HPV detection has few false-positives but may miss one-half to one-quarter of HPV-related cases (false-negatives). Given these findings in cancer patients, the utility of oral rinses and swabs as screening tests for HPV-HNSCC among healthy populations is probably limited. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Although it has been shown that prophylactic vaccination can induce genital immunity, there is inadequate information on human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine-induced oral immunity, which is of particular interest due to HPV-associated oropharyngeal malignancies and recurrent respiratory papillomatosis. Therefore, we assessed the efficacy of various HPV vaccines against oral HPV pseudovirus (PsV) infection in mice.Study Design: Preclinical scientific investigation.Methods: C57BL/6 mice were vaccinated three times at 2-week intervals with either Gardasil (Merck, Kenilworth, NJ) (50 µL intramuscular injection) or a candidate pan-HPV L2 vaccine with alum adjuvant (25 µg subcutaneous injection). Additional mice were immunized with passive transfer of either Gardasil (Merck) human antisera or nonimmunized sera (100 µL intraperitoneal injection). All vaccinated and naïve control mice were then challenged with HPV16 E6E7 luciferase PsV in the oral mucosa. Visualization of HPV PsV infection was monitored through in vivo luciferase imaging.Results: Oral luciferase-expressing HPV16 PsV infection was not detected in Gardasil (Merck), L2 vaccine, and Gardasil (Merck) antisera-immunized mice, whereas robust luciferase expression was observed in all control mice. An in vitro neutralization assay from sera of Gardasil-vaccinated (Merck) mice confirmed that vaccine efficacy was due to neutralizing antibodies.Conclusion: Oral HPV16 PsV infection in mice was completely prevented with all methods of prophylactic HPV immunization. These findings provide preliminary evidence that human vaccines induce protection against oral HPV infection, which has significant public health implications for HPV-associated oropharyngeal malignancies.Level Of Evidence: NA. Laryngoscope, 128:E16-E20, 2018. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Incidence of human papillomavirus (HPV)-related oropharyngeal cancer is increasing. There is interest in identifying healthy individuals most at risk for development of oropharyngeal cancer to inform screening strategies. Patients and methods: All data are from 2009 to 2014, including 13 089 people ages 20-69 in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES), oropharyngeal cancer cases from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER 18) registries (representing ≥28% of the US population), and oropharyngeal cancer mortality from National Center for Health Statistics (NCHS). Primary study outcomes are (i) prevalence of oncogenic HPV DNA in an oral rinse and gargle sample, and (ii) incident oropharyngeal squamous cell cancer. Results: Oncogenic oral HPV DNA is detected in 3.5% of all adults age 20-69 years; however, the lifetime risk of oropharyngeal cancer is low (37 per 10 000). Among men 50-59 years old, 8.1% have an oncogenic oral HPV infection, 2.1% have an oral HPV16 infection, yet only 0.7% will 'ever' develop oropharyngeal cancer in their lifetime. Oncogenic oral HPV prevalence was higher in men than women, and increased with number of lifetime oral sexual partners and tobacco use. Men who currently smoked and had≥5 lifetime oral sexual partners had 'elevated risk' (prevalence=14.9%). Men with only one of these risk factors (i.e. either smoked and had 2-4 partners or did not smoke and had≥5 partners) had 'medium risk' (7.3%). Regardless of what other risk factors participants had, oncogenic oral HPV prevalence was 'low' among those with only≤1 lifetime oral sexual partner (women=0.7% and men=1.7%). Conclusions: Screening based upon oncogenic oral HPV detection would be challenging. Most groups have low oncogenic oral HPV prevalence. In addition to the large numbers of individuals who would need to be screened to identify prevalent oncogenic oral HPV, the lifetime risk of developing oropharyngeal caner among those with infection remains low. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Human papillomavirus (HPV) is known to play a role in the development of head and neck squamous cell carcinomas (HNSCC) and to date, no study has reported on the association between oral HPV infection and HNSCC in the Caribbean. The objective was to determine the prevalence of oral HPV infection in the French West Indies (FWI), overall and by HPV genotype, among HNSCC cases and healthy population controls.Method: We used data from a population-based case-control study conducted in the FWI. The prevalence of oral HPV was estimated separately among 100 HNSCC cases (mean age 59 years) and 308 population controls (mean age 57 years). Odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were estimated using a logistic regression adjusting for age, sex, tobacco, and alcohol consumption, to assess the association between oral HPV infection and HNSCC.Results: Prevalence of oral HPV infections was 26% in controls (30% in men and 14% in women) and 36% in HNSCC cases (36% in men, 33% in women). HPV52 was the most commonly detected genotype, in cases and in controls. The prevalence of HPV16, HPV33, and HPV51 was significantly higher in cases than in controls (p = 0.0340, p = 0.0472, and 0.0144, respectively). Oral infection with high-risk HPV was associated with an increase in risk of HNSCC (OR 1.99, 95% CI 0.95-4.15). HPV16 was only associated with oropharyngeal cancer (OR 16.01, 95% CI 1.67-153.64).Conclusion: This study revealed a high prevalence of oral HPV infection in this middle-aged Afro-Caribbean population, and a specific distribution of HPV genotypes. These findings may provide insight into HNSCC etiology specific to the FWI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The role of human papillomavirus (HPV) in tonsillar squamous cell carcinomas (TSCC) is of interest, since a considerable proportion of TSCC in Sweden and other Western countries is HPV positive. Nevertheless, the natural history of HPV in normal tonsils, and the progression from localized infection to pre-malignant lesion to cancer are poorly understood. The aim of this study was to investigate whether HPV types found in mouthwash samples correlated to those in tonsillar tissue from the same individuals undergoing tonsillectomy. Methods: Mouthwash samples from 232 patients, aged 3–56 years, undergoing tonsillectomy, the majority with chronic tonsillitis, were collected at the time of surgery and analysed for the presence of 27 HPV types by a bead based multiplex assay. Results: An HPV prevalence of 10.3% (24/232) was observed in mouthwash samples, with HPV 69 being the dominant type (10/24). Ten patients were positive for high risk HPV (HPV 16, 33, 35, 45, 56, 59). None of the tonsils resected from patients with HPV-positive mouthwash samples were positive for HPV. Conclusions: Despite an oral HPV prevalence of 10.3% in mouthwash samples from tonsillectomized patients, with dominance of HPV 69, none of the corresponding tonsillar samples exhibited the presence of HPV. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Prevalence of human papillomavirus (HPV) infections was assessed among 1033 young men who have sex with men (MSM) aged 18-26 years. HPV (any type) was detected in 742 (71.8%) anal specimens and 101 (9.8%) oral specimens. Although HPV was detected in specimens from both anatomical sites in 83 (8.0%) participants, type-specific concordance for at least 1 HPV type was found in only 35 (3.4%) participants. HIV and smoking were associated with higher prevalence at both sites and frequency of concordant types. Coinfections of identical HPV types were rare, suggesting independent infection events and/or different modes of clearance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To evaluate human papillomavirus (HPV) prevalence in the tonsil using extensive ex vivo brushing and gargling in a large age-stratified sample of cancer-free patients.Materials and Methods: From 2012 to 2016, consecutive patients undergoing tonsillectomy for benign indications in 19 French University Hospitals were invited to participate in the SPLIT study. Immediately after resection, half-tonsils were extensively brushed at the pathology laboratories on the surface epithelium and in tonsil crypts to collect exfoliated cells. In 11 centers, patients aged 15 and over (adults) were also asked to provide gargle samples before surgery. HPV-DNA detection used a very sensitive Luminex technology to evaluate 21 HPV types.Results: Tonsil brushings from 692 patients aged 1-70 years and gargles from 268 adults were tested for HPV. Among adults, overall HPV prevalence was 3.6% in tonsil brushings and 13.1% in gargles and HPV16 prevalence was 2.2% and 4.1%, respectively. Among 139 children, tonsil brushings were positive in two girls (1.4%). Percent agreement in HPV detection in paired tonsil brushings and gargles in adults was 85.8% and positive agreement 9.5%. HPV prevalence in gargles significantly varied by sex (prevalence ratio in men vs women=2.1; 95% confidence interval; 1.1-4.1) and tonsillectomy indication (non-infectious vs. infectious=4.9; 1.4-17.0).Conclusion: HPV infection is infrequent in tonsil brushings of cancer-free children and adults. In contrast, HPV infection in gargles in adults is rather common. Low agreement in paired tonsil brushings and gargles suggests that gargle is not representative of HPV prevalence in the tonsil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Persistent oral human papillomavirus (HPV) infection increases risk for oropharyngeal carcinoma, and people living with HIV have higher rates of oral HPV infection and related cancers. Some prescription medications have immunomodulatory effects, but the impact of medication use on oral HPV natural history is unknown. Methods: Scope oral rinse-and-gargle samples were collected semi-annually from 1,666 participants and tested for 37 types of oral HPV DNA using PCR; 594 HPV-infected participants with 1,358 type-specific oral HPV infections were identified. Data were collected on recent (past 6 months) use of medications. The relationship between medication use and oral HPV clearance was evaluated using Wei-Lin-Weissfeld regression, adjusting for biologic sex, prevalent versus incident infection, age, HIV status and CD4+ T cell count. Results: Out of 11 medications examined, oral HPV clearance was significantly reduced in participants reporting recent use of antipsychotics (HR 0.75, 95% CI 0.57-0.99), anxiolytics/sedatives (HR 0.78, 95% CI 0.63-0.96) and antidepressants (HR 0.82, 95% CI 0.67-0.999). Among antipsychotics users, effect modification by HIV status was observed, with reduced clearance in HIV-infected (HR 0.67, 95% CI 0.49-0.91), but not HIV-uninfected participants ( p-interaction = 0.009). After adjusted analysis, antipsychotic use remained significantly associated with reduced oral HPV clearance overall (aHR 0.75, 95% CI 0.57-0.99), and when restricted to only HIV-infected participants (aHR 0.66, 95% CI 0.48-0.90). After adjustment, anxiolytic/sedative use and antidepressant use were no longer significantly associated with reduced oral HPV clearance. Conclusions: Some medications were associated with decreased oral HPV clearance, most notably antipsychotic medications. These medications are prescribed for conditions that may have immunomodulating effects, so characteristics of underlying illness may have partially contributed to reduced oral HPV clearance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To explore whether HPV-related biomarkers predict oropharyngeal squamous cell cancer (OPSCC) survival similarly across different global regions, and to explore their prognostic utility among non-oropharyngeal (non-OP) head and neck cancers.Methods: Data from 1362 head and neck SCC (HNSCC) diagnosed 2002-2011 was used from epidemiologic studies in: Brazil (GENCAPO study, n=388), U.S. (CHANCE study, n=472), and Europe (ARCAGE study, n=502). Tumors were centrally tested for p16INK4a and HPV16 DNA (by PCR). Risk of mortality was examined using Cox proportional hazard models.Results: There were 517 OPSCC and 845 non-OP HNSCC. Cases were primarily male (81%), ever smokers (91%), with median age of 58yearsandmedian follow-up of 3.1years (IQR=1.4-5.9). Among OPSCC, the risk of mortality was significantly lower among 184 HPV-related (i.e., p16+/HPV16+) compared to 333 HPV-unrelated (p16- and/or HPV16-) cases (HR=0.25, 95%CI=0.18-0.34). Mortality was reduced among HPV-related OPSCC cases from the U.S., Europe, and Brazil (each p⩽0.01) and after adjustment, remained significantly reduced (aHR=0.34, 95%CI=0.24-0.49). Among non-OP HNSCC, neither p16 (aHR=0.83, 95%CI=0.60-1.14), HPV16 DNA (aHR=1.20, 95%CI=0.89-1.63), or p16+/HPV16+ (aHR=0.59, 95%CI=0.32-1.08) was a significantly predictor of mortality. When interaction was tested, the effect of HPV16/p16 was significantly different in OPSCC than non-OP HNSCC (p-interaction=0.02).Conclusion: HPV-related OPSCCs had similar survival benefits across these three regions. Prognostic utility of HPV among non-OP HNSCC is limited so tumor HPV/p16 testing should not be routinely done among non-OP HNSCC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Different authors hypothesized an important impact of sexual behavior on the prevalence of oral human papillomavirus (HPV) infections. In order to investigate this relationship more in detail and in contrast to most other studies, the present work focused on the population group with the highest risk for sexually transmitted infections: young and sexual active adults. Materials and methods: Three hundred and ten men and women aged 18-30 years could be recruited. After the completion of a risk-factor survey, brush smear samples for oral HPV detection were taken in every participant. Results: In 18.1 %, oral HPV could be detected. Overall, smoking ( p = 0.0074) and a high number of different sexual partners (vaginal: p = 0.0001; oral: p < 0.0001) were significantly correlated with a positive HPV testing. In case of high risk HPV infections, besides tobacco and sexual behavior, alcohol consumption showed a significant association with a positive testing ( p = 0.0212). Conclusions: Overall, the prevalence of oral HPV seems to be higher in young, sexual active adults compared to other population groups. Tobacco and alcohol may facilitate an oral HPV infection. Sexual behavior, especially oral sex practices, seems to play a crucial role in the transmission of oral HPV. Clinical relevance: The presented data, especially the association of oral high risk HPV positivity and promiscuity, may lead to improvements in the existing oral HPV prevention strategies like a HPV vaccination for both genders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Initial studies suggest higher serum levels of some pro-inflammatory cytokines may be associated with decreased cervical human papillomavirus (HPV) clearance. However, the relationship of cytokines with oral HPV clearance has not been explored. Methods From 2010 to 2014, oral rinse and serum samples were collected semi-annually from 1601 adults. Oral rinse samples were tested for HPV DNA using PCR. Based on oral HPV results, 931 serum samples were selected for cytokine evaluation to include a roughly equal number of prevalent (n = 307), incident (n = 313), and no oral HPV infections (n = 311). Electrochemiluminescence multiplex assays were used to determine the concentrations of IL-6, IL-8, TNF-α, IFN-γ, IL-1β, IL-2, IL-4, IL-10, IL-12 and IL-13. The relationship between serum cytokine concentrations (categorized into quartiles) and oral HPV clearance was evaluated with Wei-Lin-Weissfeld regression models, adjusting for HPV infection type (prevalent vs. incident), age, HIV status, and CD4 T cell count. Results Higher TNF-α concentration was associated with decreased clearance in men (highest vs. lowest quartile, adjusted hazard ratio [aHR] = 0.52, 95% CI = 0.34–0.79) and women (aHR = 0.76, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.55–1.04), with stronger associations in men than women (p-interaction = 0.049). Higher IL-2 concentration was associated with reduced clearance in men (aHR = 0.69, 95% CI = 0.50–0.95), but not women (p-interaction = 0.058). Results were similar within CD4 T cell strata (CD4 ⩾ 500 or CD4 < 500 cells/μl) among HIV-infected participants. No other cytokines were associated with clearance. Conclusion High serum TNF-α is associated with reduced clearance of oral HPV infection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Unlabelled: Oral human papillomavirus genotype 16 (HPV16) infection causes oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), and the prevalence of oropharyngeal SCC is higher among men than women in the United States. In a cohort study of oral HPV infection among 409 individuals aged 18-25 years, the risk among men but not among women significantly increased as the number of recent (ie, within the prior 3 months) oral sex partners increased (Pinteraction = .05). In contrast, the risk among women but not among men significantly decreased as the lifetime number of vaginal sex partners increased (Pinteraction = .037). Men were also significantly less likely than women to clear oral HPV infection. Our data contribute to understanding sex differences in risk for HPV-positive oropharyngeal SCC.Clinical Trials Registration: NCT00994019. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The association between oral human papillomavirus 16 (HPV16) DNA load and infection clearance was evaluated among 88 individuals with oral HPV16 infection who were identified within a prospective cohort of 1470 HIV-infected and uninfected individuals. Oral rinse specimens were collected semiannually for up to 5 years. The oral HPV16 load at the time of the first positive test result was significantly associated with the time to clearance of infection (continuous P trends <.01). Notably, clearance rates by 24 months were 41% and 94% in the highest and lowest HPV16 load tertiles (P = .03), respectively. High oral HPV16 load warrants consideration as a biomarker for infection persistence, the presumed precursor of HPV16-associated oropharyngeal cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Human papillomavirus (HPV) causes the majority of oropharyngeal cancers in the United States, yet the risk factors for and natural history of oral HPV infection are largely unknown. In 2010–2011, a US-based longitudinal cohort study of 761 human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-infected and 469 at-risk HIV-uninfected participants from the Multicenter AIDS Cohort Study and the Women's Interagency HIV Study was initiated. Semiannually collected oral rinses were evaluated for 37 HPV genotypes using the Roche LINEAR ARRAY HPV Genotyping Test (Roche Molecular Systems, Pleasanton, California), and factors associated with oral HPV incidence and clearance were explored using adjusted Wei-Lin-Weissfeld modeling. Through 2013, the 2-year cumulative incidence of any type of oral HPV infection was 34% in HIV-infected persons and 19% in HIV-uninfected persons. However, many of these infections cleared. Seven percent of incident infections and 35% of prevalent infections persisted for at least 2 years. After adjustment for other risk factors, HIV infection (adjusted hazard ratio = 2.3, 95% confidence interval: 1.7, 3.2), reduced current CD4 cell count, and increased numbers of oral sex and “rimming” partners increased the risk of incident oral HPV infection, whereas male sex, older age, and current smoking increased the risk of oral HPV persistence (each P < 0.05). This helps explain the consistent associations observed between these factors and prevalent oral HPV infection in previous cross-sectional studies. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Oral HPV infection, the cause of most oropharyngeal cancer in the U.S., is not well studied among high-risk young adults. Men (n = 340) and women (n = 270) aged 18-25 years attending Baltimore County STD clinics were recruited if they declined HPV vaccination. Each participant had a 30-second oral rinse and gargle sample tested for 37 types of HPV DNA, and a risk-factor survey. Factors associated with prevalent infection were explored using log binomial regression. Men had higher prevalence of any oral HPV (15.3% vs. 7.8%, p = 0.004) and vaccine-type oral HPV (i.e., HPV16/18/6/11: 5.0% vs. 1.1%, p = 0.007) infection than women. In multivariate analysis, male gender (aPR = 1.93, 95% CI = 1.10-3.39), number of recent oral sex partners (p-trend = 0.013) and having ever performed oral sex on a woman (aPR = 1.73, 95% CI = 1.06-2.82) were associated with increased oral HPV prevalence. Performing oral sex on a woman may confer higher risk of oral HPV acquisition than performing oral sex on a man. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Genital warts are caused by human papillomavirus (HPV). HPV is a leading cause of anogenital malignancies and a role of HPV in the aetiology of oro-pharyngeal cancers has been demonstrated. The frequency of oral HPV infection in patients with genital warts and the association between concomitant genital, anal and oral infection is unclear. A total of 201 men and women with genital wart-like lesions were recruited. Swab samples were obtained from the genital warts and the anal canal and an oral rinse was collected. Anal HPV was found in 46.2% and oral HPV in 10.4% of the participants. Concordance between anal and genital wart HPV types was 78.1%, while concordance between oral and genital wart types was 60.9%. A lower concordance of 21.7% was observed between anal and oral HPV types. Significantly more women than men had multiple HPV types and anal HPV. In conclusion, extra genital HPV is common in patients with genital warts. A gender inequality seems to exist. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction Human papillomavirus ( HPV) infection is a very common sexually transmitted disease. A variable concordance and clearance time between partners of infected heterosexual couples have been shown. Aim Aims of this study were evaluation of prevalent sites of HPV infection, frequency, genotype concordance, and course of viral infection in counseled and non-counseled infected heterosexual couples. Methods Prospective, controlled study among 74 consecutive HPV-infected heterosexual couples seeking their first medical intervention for sexually transmitted infections. Main Outcome Measures HPV detection and genotyping were performed at enrollment and during 24 months follow-up by polymerase chain reaction and I NNO- LiPA assay in samples obtained from both partners. Samples were collected in males from coronal sulcus, urethra, semen, and oropharynx, and from cervix and oropharynx in females. Moreover, HPV fluorescence in situ hybridization was analyzed on semen samples. Results The study was completed by 49 couples. The specific HPV-type concordance among infected couples was 69.4%. Among couples who declared performing oral sex, oropharyngeal infection was 22.7% of couples, and was more prevalent in females than males (18.1% and 4.5%, respectively). Thereafter, couples were randomly divided in two groups: a control group of 24 couples followed up for HPV-related lesions, and an experimental group counseled of 25 couples followed up for HPV-related lesions and counseled to avoid known risk factors for HPV infection. In patients who received counseling, the number of infected sites diminished faster during the follow-up and a higher number of couples had clearance. Only in the counseled group were there no infected couples at the end of the 24-month follow-up period. Conclusions This study confirms that HPV infection affects many sites in both males and females and shows a significant prevalence of oropharyngeal infection in couples performing oral sex. Targeted counseling in heterosexual couples appears to reduce the number of infected sites and to speed up viral clearance. Garolla A, Pizzol D, Vasoin F, Barzon L, Bertoldo A, and Foresta C. Counseling reduces HPV persistence in coinfected couples. J Sex Med 2014;11:127-135. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)–infected individuals are at greater risk for human papillomavirus (HPV)–associated anal than oropharyngeal cancers. The prevalence of anal vs oral HPV infections is higher in this population, but whether this is explained by higher incidence or persistence is unknown.Methods. Oral rinse and anal swab samples were collected semiannually from 404 HIV-infected adults in Baltimore, Maryland. Samples were tested for 37 HPV types using PGMY09/11 primers and reverse line-blot hybridization. Risk factors for HPV persistence were explored using adjusted Wei-Lin-Weissfeld models.Results. The prevalence (84% vs 28%), incidence (145 vs 31 per 1000 person-months), and 12-month persistence (54% vs 29%) were higher for anal vs oral HPV infections, respectively (each P < .001). Heterosexual men had lower incidence of anal HPV than men who have sex with men and women, but a higher incidence of oral HPV infection (test of interaction P < 0.001). In adjusted analyses, risk factors for HPV persistence included prevalent vs incident (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR] = 4.0; 95% confidence interval [CI], 3.5–4.8) and anal vs oral HPV infections (aHR = 1.5; 95% CI, 1.2–1.9).Conclusions. The higher incidence and persistence of anal vs oral HPV infections likely contributes to the higher burden of anal as compared to oral HPV-associated cancers in HIV-infected individuals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Patients with HPV-positive and HPV-negative head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) are significantly different with regard to sociodemographic and behavioral characteristics that clinicians may use to assume tumor HPV status. Machine learning methods were used to evaluate the predictive value of patient characteristics and laboratory biomarkers of HPV exposure for a diagnosis of HPV16-positive HNSCC compared to in situ hybridization, the current gold-standard. Models that used a combination of demographic characteristics such as age, tobacco use, gender, and race had only moderate predictive value for tumor HPV status among all patients with HNSCC (positive predictive value [PPV]=75%, negative predictive value [NPV]=68%) or when limited to oropharynx cancer patients (PPV=55%, NPV=65%) and thus included a sizeable number of false positive and false negative predictions. Prediction was not improved by the addition of other demographic or behavioral factors (sexual behavior, income, education) or biomarkers of HPV16 exposure (L1, E6/7 antibodies or DNA in oral exfoliated cells). Patient demographic and behavioral characteristics as well as HPV biomarkers are not an accurate substitute for clinical testing of tumor HPV status. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Head and neck cancers are increasingly associated with human papillomavirus (HPV) infection. Previous studies of oral HPV indicate considerable heterogeneity across geographic regions and by sex, but studies differ in methodologies used and risk groups included. Understanding the natural history of oral HPV in the general population is important to assess HPV-related disease burden and plan effective prevention programs. In this study, we aim to assess the prevalence, incidence, and persistence of oral HPV among adult men and women. Factors independently associated with oral HPV will also be evaluated. The PROGRESS (PRevalence of Oral hpv infection, a Global aSSessment) study is a non-interventional study of 7877 healthy men and women aged 18–60 years, from France, Germany, Spain, the United Kingdom (UK) and the United States (US). Oral HPV prevalence will be measured using a commercially available PCR DNA test. In the US, participants will be followed prospectively every 6 months for 24 months to assess incidence, clearance, and persistence of oral HPV infection. Eligible individuals presenting for regular dental check-ups will be recruited from participating dental offices via systematic consecutive sampling. Participant dentists will collect clinical characteristics, and participants will complete self-reported study questionnaires and provide an oral rinse and gargle (ORG) specimen for HPV-DNA detection and genotyping at each study visit. HPV-DNA detection and genotyping will be performed in two reference laboratories, using the SPF10/DEIA/LiPA25 system. PROGRESS study aims to fill knowledge gaps concerning the natural history of oral HPV using a standardized methodology. PROGRESS will also assess factors associated with oral HPV prevalence and natural history in the general population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]