Evaluating the Utility and Prevalence of HPV Biomarkers in Oral Rinses and Serology for HPV-related Oropharyngeal Cancer

Detection of serum biomarkers of HPV-16 driven oropharynx and oral cavity cancer in Brazil

BACKGROUND

HPV-16 driven oropharynx/oral cavity squamous cell carcinomas prevalence varies globally. We evaluated the presence of HPV-16 ctDNA and HPV-16 E6 antibodies in samples obtained from participants treated at the Instituto do Cancer do Estado de Sao Paulo, ICESP, and from whom tumoral HPV DNA, HPV-16 E6*I mRNA, and p16INK4a status was also accessed.

METHODS

HPV was genotyped by PCR-hybridization. All HPV DNA positive and ∼10 % HPV DNA negative cases underwent p16INK4a immunohistochemistry and E6*I RNA testing using a multiplex bead based protocol. HPV-16 ctDNA and anti-E6 antibodies were assessed by ddPCR (digital droplet PCR) and multiplex serology, respectively.

RESULTS

The prevalence of HPV-16 in oropharynx carcinoma (OPC) cases was low (8.7 %) when considering solely HPV-16 DNA detection, and even lower (5.2 %) when taken into consideration the concomitant detection of HPV-16 E6*I RNA and/or p16INK4 (HPV-16 attributable fraction - AF). None of the oral cavity cancer (OCC) cases were detected with HPV-16 DNA. HPV-16 ctDNA was more commonly detected than HPV-16 E6 antibodies (29.8 % versus 10.6 %). Both serum biomarkers attained 100 % sensitivity of detecting HPV-16 AF OPC, however the specificity of the HPV-16 anti-E6 biomarker was higher compared to ctDNA (93.2 % versus 75.0 %). Finally, when both HPV-16 ctDNA and anti-E6 biomarkers were considered together, the sensitivity and specificity for HPV-16 OPC detection was 100 % and about 70 %, respectively, independently of analyzing HPV-16 DNA positive or HPV-16 AF tumors.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings corroborate that serum biomarkers are highly sensitive and specific biomarkers for detection of HPV-associated OPC.

Circulating tumor-tissue modified HPV DNA testing in the clinical evaluation of patients at risk for HPV-positive oropharynx cancer: The IDEA-HPV study

OBJECTIVES

While survival outcomes are favorable for Human Papillomavirus (HPV)-positive oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinomas (OPSCCs), early diagnosis may minimize treatment-related morbidity and mortality. This study evaluated circulating tumor tissue-modified viral (TTMV)-HPV DNA plasma testing to facilitate early diagnosis of HPV-positive OPSCCs.

METHODS

In this prospective exploratory cohort study, patients presenting to an Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery clinic with unexplained signs or symptoms considered high-risk for HPV-positive OPSCC were recruited between March 2021-October 2022. Circulating TTMV-HPV DNA testing was performed, and results were shared with subjects and treating clinicians. Clinicians were surveyed regarding the perceived clinical utility of the test.

RESULTS

Thirty-nine subjects were included. Most subjects were women (N = 23, 59 %), white (N = 32, 82 %) and never-smokers (N = 20, 51 %) with median age 60 years. Circulating TTMV-HPV DNA was detected in 2/39 subjects, both subsequently diagnosed with HPV-positive OPSCC. Both were white men aged 70-80 years with a neck mass. One subject with undetectable TTMV-HPV DNA was also diagnosed with HPV-positive OPSCC through excisional neck mass biopsy. Other eventual diagnoses included 3 HPV-negative head and neck squamous cell carcinomas and 4 other malignancies. Testing was perceived as helpful in clinical decision-making for 26/38 (68 %) subjects, and useful for similar future patients for 32/37 (86 %) subjects.

CONCLUSION

Circulating TTMV-HPV DNA testing is feasible and holds potential as a diagnostic aid for HPV-positive OPSCC alongside standard clinical workup. Clinicians should be cognizant of its limitations, as a negative test does not necessarily indicate the absence of disease. Further studies to evaluate its utility are warranted.

Stepped Behavioral and Biological Screening for Oral Oncogenic HPV DNA in Middle-aged and Elderly Adults: A Feasibility Study

Novel preventive interventions are needed to address the rising incidence of human papillomavirus (HPV)-mediated oropharyngeal cancer (HPV+ OPC). This pilot study evaluated the feasibility of a stepped, behavioral and biological screening program for oral oncogenic HPV infection, an intermediate HPV+ OPC outcome.

This was a cross-sectional, feasibility study. Eligible 45-74 years old adults identified from three clinical research registries were administered a behavioral risk survey (step 1). Participant tobacco use and sexual behavior history were translated into a quantifiable risk of oral oncogenic HPV DNA, according to prior National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey analyses. Females with >2% risk and males with >7% risk were offered biological screening for oral oncogenic HPV DNA (step 2) via an oral rinse and gargle specimen.

A total of 292 individuals were contacted, but only 144 (49%) were reached. Among these, 56 individuals (19%) were uninterested and 18 (13%) were ineligible. Seventy individuals began the survey and 66 completed it (step 1), among whom 46 were classified as low-risk. Among the remaining 20 participants classified as high-risk for an oral oncogenic HPV infection, 5% were current smokers and the median participant had performed oral sex on 10 unique partners. During step 2 (biological screening), 45% (9/20) completed testing, all of whom tested negative for oral oncogenic HPV DNA.

In this pilot of a stepped, oral oncogenic HPV screening program, enrollment and study completion were suboptimal. These barriers to screening should be characterized and addressed before reevaluating the feasibility of this program.

PREVENTION RELEVANCE

Novel preventive interventions are needed to address the rising incidence of HPV+ OPC. In this feasibility study, we characterized barriers to a two-step, behavioral and biological screening program for oral oncogenic HPV infection, an intermediate outcome for HPV+ OPC.

High levels of HPV16-L1 antibody but not HPV16 DNA load or integration predict oropharyngeal patient outcome: The Papillophar study

The incidence of oropharyngeal cancers (OPC) is increasing in the world. Among OPC, those induced by human papillomaviruses have a better prognosis than non-HPV-associated OPC. The objective of this study was to highlight the relevance of HPV16 load, HPV16 DNA integration and HPV16-L1 serology on progression-free survival and overall survival of OPC patients. The PAPILLOPHAR cohort consists of 362 patients with oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinomas prospectively followed up for 5 years after treatment. Tumor biopsies and sera were collected at inclusion to investigate tumor HPV DNA/RNA characteristics and HPV16 L1 serology, respectively. Twenty-seven percent of tumor biopsies were HPV DNA- and RNA-positive and HPV16 represented 93% of HPV-positive cases. Among them, neither HPV16 viral load nor HPV16 DNA integration was associated with overall survival (OS) or progression-free survival (PFS). In contrast, high anti-HPV16 L1 antibody titers were significantly associated with a better OS and PFS. This study reveals that HPV16 load and integration are not relevant prognosis biomarkers in OPC patients.Clinical Relevance: High levels of HPV16 L1 antibodies may be useful to predict OPC patient outcome following treatment.ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT00918710, May 2017.

Feasibility of clinical evaluation of individuals with increased risk for HPV-associated oropharynx cancer

BACKGROUND

Human papillomavirus-associated oropharynx squamous cell carcinoma (HPV-OPSCC) has no known pre-malignant lesion. While vaccination offers future primary prevention, there is current interest in secondary prevention. The feasibility of clinical evaluation of individuals at increased risk for HPV-OPSCC is unclear.

METHODS

Individuals with risk factors for HPV-OPSCC were enrolled in a prospective study (MOUTH). Participants positive for biomarkers associated with HPV-OPSCC were eligible for a clinical evaluation which comprised a head and neck examination and imaging with ultrasound and/or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). This study was designed to evaluate feasibility of clinical evaluation in a screening study.

RESULTS

Three hundred and eighty-four participants were eligible for clinical evaluation. Of the 384, 204 (53%) completed a head and neck examination or imaging. Of these, 66 (32%) completed MRI (n = 51) and/or ultrasound (n = 64) studies.

CONCLUSIONS

Clinical evaluations, including head and neck examination and imaging, are feasible in the context of a screening study for HPV-OPSCC.

Association of Pretreatment Circulating Tumor Tissue-Modified Viral HPV DNA With Clinicopathologic Factors in HPV-Positive Oropharyngeal Cancer

Importance

Circulating tumor tissue-modified viral (TTMV) human papillomavirus (HPV) DNA is a dynamic, clinically relevant biomarker for HPV-positive oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma. Reasons for its wide pretreatment interpatient variability are not well understood.

Objective

To characterize clinicopathologic factors associated with TTMV HPV DNA.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This cross-sectional study included patients evaluated for HPV-positive oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute in Boston, Massachusetts, between December 2019 and January 2022 and who were undergoing curative-intent treatment.

Exposures

Clinicopathologic characteristics including demographic variables, tumor and nodal staging, HPV genotype, and imaging findings.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Pretreatment circulating TTMV HPV DNA from 5 genotypes (16, 18, 31, 33, and 35) assessed using a commercially available digital droplet polymerase chain reaction-based assay, considered as either detectable/undetectable or a continuous score (fragments/mL).

Results

Among 110 included patients, 96 were men (87%) and 104 were White (95%), with a mean (SD) age of 62.2 (9.4) years. Circulating TTMV HPV DNA was detected in 98 patients (89%), with a median (IQR) score of 315 (47-2686) fragments/mL (range, 0-60 061 fragments/mL). Most detectable TTMV HPV DNA was genotype 16 (n = 86 [88%]), while 12 patients (12%) harbored other genotypes. Circulating TTMV HPV DNA detection was most strongly associated with clinical N stage. Although few patients had clinical stage N0 disease, only 4 of these 11 patients (36%) had detectable DNA compared with 94 of 99 patients (95%) with clinical stage N1 to N3 disease (proportion difference, 59%; 95% CI, 30%-87%). Among patients with undetectable TTMV HPV DNA, more than half (7 of 12 [58%]) had clinical stage N0 disease. The TTMV HPV DNA prevalence and score increased with progressively higher clinical nodal stage, diameter of largest lymph node, and higher nodal maximum standardized uptake value on positron emission tomography/computed tomography. In multivariable analysis, clinical nodal stage and nodal maximum standardized uptake value were each strongly associated with TTMV HPV DNA score. Among 27 surgically treated patients, more patients with than without lymphovascular invasion had detectable TTMV HPV DNA (12 of 12 [100%] vs 9 of 15 [60%]).

Conclusions and Relevance

In this cross-sectional study, circulating TTMV HPV DNA was statistically significantly associated with nodal disease at HPV-positive OPSCC diagnosis. The few patients with undetectable levels had predominantly clinical stage N0 disease, suggesting assay sensitivity for diagnostic purposes may be lower among patients without cervical lymphadenopathy. Mechanisms underlying this association, and the use of this biomarker for surveillance of patients with undetectable baseline values, warrant further investigation.

HPV and head and neck cancers: Towards early diagnosis and prevention

Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is the sixth most common cancer worldwide with an increasing trend of its incidence. Alcohol consumption, smoking, and viral infections, such as the mucosal high-risk (HR) human papillomaviruses (HPVs) are major risk factors for HNSCC development. In particular, HR HPVs are mainly associated with a subset of oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OPSCC), while other head and neck sites are marginally affected by HPV infection. HPV16 is the most frequently HR HPV type associated with HNSCC. In contrast to the cervix, no screening programs or identifiable pre-malignant lesions have been characterized for HPV-related HNSCC. Therefore, identification of general diagnostic algorithms and HPV biomarkers that could facilitate the early diagnosis, disease evolution and recurrence for HPV-driven HNSCCs are urgently needed. We herein review the role of HPV in HNSCC with a focus on epidemiology, biology, applied diagnostic algorithms and available biomarkers in body fluids as early diagnostic tools in HPV-driven HNSCCs.

Absolute Risk of Oropharyngeal Cancer After an HPV16-E6 Serology Test and Potential Implications for Screening: Results From the Human Papillomavirus Cancer Cohort Consortium

PURPOSE

Seropositivity for the HPV16-E6 oncoprotein is a promising marker for early detection of oropharyngeal cancer (OPC), but the absolute risk of OPC after a positive or negative test is unknown.

METHODS

We constructed an OPC risk prediction model that integrates (1) relative odds of OPC for HPV16-E6 serostatus and cigarette smoking from the human papillomavirus (HPV) Cancer Cohort Consortium (HPVC3), (2) US population risk factor data from the National Health Interview Survey, and (3) US sex-specific population rates of OPC and mortality.

RESULTS

The nine HPVC3 cohorts included 365 participants with OPC with up to 10 years between blood draw and diagnosis and 5,794 controls. The estimated 10-year OPC risk for HPV16-E6 seropositive males at age 50 years was 17.4% (95% CI, 12.4 to 28.6) and at age 60 years was 27.1% (95% CI, 19.2 to 45.4). Corresponding 5-year risk estimates were 7.3% and 14.4%, respectively. For HPV16-E6 seropositive females, 10-year risk estimates were 3.6% (95% CI, 2.5 to 5.9) at age 50 years and 5.5% (95% CI, 3.8 to 9.2) at age 60 years and 5-year risk estimates were 1.5% and 2.7%, respectively. Over 30 years, after a seropositive result at age 50 years, an estimated 49.9% of males and 13.3% of females would develop OPC. By contrast, 10-year risks among HPV16-E6 seronegative people were very low, ranging from 0.01% to 0.25% depending on age, sex, and smoking status.

CONCLUSION

We estimate that a substantial proportion of HPV16-E6 seropositive individuals will develop OPC, with 10-year risks of 17%-27% for males and 4%-6% for females age 50-60 years in the United States. This high level of risk may warrant periodic, minimally invasive surveillance after a positive HPV16-E6 serology test, particularly for males in high-incidence regions. However, an appropriate clinical protocol for surveillance remains to be established.

Detection of Circulating HPV16 DNA as a Biomarker for Cervical Cancer by a Bead-Based HPV Genotyping Assay

Human papillomavirus (HPV) circulating tumor DNA (HPV ctDNA) was proposed as a biomarker for the detection and disease monitoring of HPV-related cancers. One hundred eighty plasma samples obtained from women diagnosed with HPV16-positive cervical cancer (CC) (n = 100), HPV16-positive premalignant lesions (cervical intraepithelial neoplasia grade 3 [CIN3]) (n = 20), and HPV DNA-negative controls (n = 60) were randomly selected from the archives for evaluating the performance of a bead-based HPV genotyping assay (E7 type-specific multiplex genotyping assay [E7-MPG]) in detecting HPV16 ctDNA. The performance of the E7-MPG was compared with those of DNA detection by droplet digital PCR (ddPCR) and detection of HPV16 E6 antibodies evaluated in an independent study. Internal controls to assess DNA quality were included in the molecular assays, i.e., beta-globin and ESR1, respectively. The sensitivity and specificity of E7-MPG and/or E6 antibodies to detect HPV16-positive CCs were evaluated. HPV16 ctDNA was detected using the E7-MPG in 42.3% of all plasma samples and in 74.7% of plasma samples from HPV16-positive CC cases. The validation of E7-MPG data by ddPCR showed that the sensitivity of the E7-MPG test for HPV16-positive CC detection was higher than that of ddPCR (74.7% versus 63.1%; P < 0.001). When both HPV16 ctDNA and E6 antibodies were considered, the sensitivity for HPV16-positive CC detection increased from 74.7% to 86.1%, while the specificity was unchanged at 97.8%. The performance of E7-MPG for the detection of HPV16 ctDNA appears to be at least as sensitive as that of ddPCR, offering an additional tool for ctDNA detection of HPV16-positive CC. The use of an additional blood marker of HPV infection, such as E6 antibodies, further improved the detection of CC. IMPORTANCE The validity of HPV ctDNA as a marker of HPV-driven cancers has been previously reported. Herein we validated an alternative to ddPCR for HPV16 ctDNA detection, using a bead-based HPV genotyping assay that offers the potential advantage of reducing the cost of clinical management due to the multiplex capability of the test, thus facilitating its use in clinical settings. In addition, we analyzed HPV ctDNA in the context of E6 antibodies as an additional HPV marker. The HPV16 ctDNA biomarker appeared to be highly specific and, to a lesser extent, sensitive for the detection of CC, mainly indicated for those at an advanced tumor stage. In this proof-of-principle study, E6 antibodies were mainly detected in early tumor stages of CC, while HPV ctDNA was mainly positive at advanced tumor stages.

HPV types 16/18 L1 E6 and E7 proteins seropositivity and cervical cancer risk in HIV-positive and HIV-negative black South African women

Background

In populations with high rates of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-coinfection, the nature of the relationship between human papillomavirus (HPV)-16 and -18 (L1, E6 and E7) antibodies and cervical cancer is still uncertain. We measured the association between seropositivity to HPV (L1, E6 and E7) proteins and cervical cancer among black South African women with and without HIV co-infection.

Methods

We used questionnaire data and serum collected from consecutively recruited patients with a newly diagnosed cancer from the Johannesburg Cancer Study from 1346 cervical cancer cases and 2532 controls (diagnosed with other non-infection related cancers). Seropositivity to HPV proteins was measured using a multiplex serological assay based on recombinant glutathione S-transferase (GST) fusion proteins. We measured associations between their presence and cervical cancer using unconditional logistic regression models and evaluated the sensitivity and specificity of these HPV biomarkers.

Results

Among controls, HIV-negative women from rural areas compared to urban had significantly higher HPV seroprevalence, HPV16 E7 (8.6% vs 3.7%) and HPV18 E7 (7.9% vs 2.0%). HPV16 E6 and E7 antibodies were positively associated with cervical cancer in HIV-positive (Adjusted Odds Ratio (AOR) = 33; 95% CI 10–107) and HIV-negative women (AOR = 97; 95% CI 46–203). In HIV-positive women, HPV E6/E7 antibodies had low sensitivity (43.0%) and high specificity (90.6%) for cervical cancer detection. In HIV-negative women, HPV E6/E7 antibodies sensitivity was 70.6% and specificity was 89.7%.

Conclusions

Our data show that HPV (L1, especially E6 and E7) antibody positivity is associated with cervical cancer in both HIV-positive and HIV-negative women. Nonetheless, being HIV-positive plays an important role in the development of cervical cancer.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13027-022-00418-2.

Oral Human Papillomavirus Associated With Differences in Oral Microbiota Beta Diversity and Microbiota Abundance

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.

Performance of oral HPV DNA, oral HPV mRNA and circulating tumor HPV DNA in the detection of HPV-related oropharyngeal cancer and cancer of unknown primary

A biomarker that is useful for the detection of human papillomavirus (HPV)‐related oropharyngeal cancer (OPC) and cancer of unknown primary (CUP) is indispensable. We evaluated the diagnostic performance of HPV DNA and mRNA in oral gargle samples and circulating tumor HPV16 DNA (ctHPV16DNA) in blood samples. Oral HPV DNA and mRNA were analyzed using commercially available HPV assays of the GENOSEARCH HPV31 and Aptima, respectively. ctHPV16DNA was analyzed using in‐house droplet digital polymerase chain reaction. Seventy‐four patients with OPC and eight patients with CUP were included. The sensitivity and specificity of oral HPV DNA, oral HPV mRNA, and ctHPV16DNA were 82% (95% confidence interval [CI] = 66‐92) and 100% (95% CI = 88‐100), 85% (95% CI = 69‐94) and 94% (95% CI = 73‐100), and 93% (95% CI = 81‐99) and 97% (95% CI = 84‐100), respectively, for HPV16‐related OPC, while those were 20% (95% CI = 1‐72) and 100% (95% CI = 3‐100), 0% (95% CI = 0‐52) and 100% (95% CI = 3‐100), and 100% (95% CI = 54‐100) and 100% (95% CI = 16‐100), respectively, for HPV16‐related CUP. The sensitivity of ctHPV16DNA for HPV16‐related OPC was higher than that of oral biomarkers, though the difference was not statistically significant. ctHPV16DNA remarkably correlated with the anatomic extent of disease, total metabolic tumor volume and HPV16 copy number per tumor genome in patients with HPV16‐related OPC/CUP, whereas oral biomarkers did not. In conclusion, ctHPV16DNA is a potentially promising biomarker for HPV16‐related OPC, while further studies are required for HPV16‐related CUP.

What's new?

A minimally‐invasive biomarker that allows the detection of human papillomavirus (HPV)‐related oropharyngeal cancer and cancer of unknown primary is indispensable. Here, the authors show that circulating tumour HPV DNA (ctHPVDNA) correlates with the tumour burden and HPV copy number per tumour genome in HPV‐related oropharyngeal cancer and cancer of unknown primary. Neither oral HPV DNA nor mRNA exhibits such a correlation. ctHPVDNA outperforms oral HPV DNA and mRNA in detecting HPV‐related oropharyngeal cancer and in distinguishing HPV‐related cancer of unknown primary from HPV‐unrelated cancers. ctHPVDNA emerges as a potentially useful biomarker for HPV‐related oropharyngeal cancer and cancer of unknown primary.

Accuracy of liquid-based brush cytology and HPV detection for the diagnosis and management of patients with oropharyngeal and oral cancer

Objectives

This study aims to evaluate the usefulness of liquid-based brush cytology for malignancy diagnosis and HPV detection in patients with suspected oropharyngeal and oral carcinomas, as well as for the diagnosis of tumoral persistence after treatment.

Material and methods

Seventy-five patients with suspicion of squamous cell carcinoma of the oropharynx or oral cavity were included. Two different study groups were analyzed according to the date of the sample collection: (1) during the first endoscopy exploration and (2) in the first control endoscopy after treatment for squamous cell carcinoma. Sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value, and accuracy for malignancy diagnosis as well as for HPV-DNA detection on brush cytologies were assessed.

Results

Before treatment, the brush cytology showed a sensitivity of 88%, specificity of 100%, and accuracy of 88%. After treatment, it showed a sensitivity of 71%, specificity of 77%, and accuracy of 75%. HPV-DNA detection in cytology samples showed a sensitivity of 85%, specificity of 100%, and accuracy of 91% before treatment and an accuracy of 100% after treatment.

Conclusions

Liquid-based brush cytology showed good accuracy for diagnosis of oropharyngeal and oral squamous cell carcinoma before treatment, but its value decreases after treatment. Nevertheless, it is useful for HPV-DNA detection, as well as to monitor the patients after treatment.

Clinical relevance

Brush cytology samples are reliable for the detection of HPV-DNA before and after treatment and may be a useful method to incorporate in the HPV testing guidelines.

Novel Antigenic Targets of HPV Therapeutic Vaccines

Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection is the cause of the majority of cervical cancers and head and neck cancers worldwide. Although prophylactic vaccines and cervical cancer screening programs have shown efficacy in preventing HPV-associated cervical cancer, cervical cancer is still a major cause of morbidity and mortality, especially in third world countries. Furthermore, head and neck cancer cases caused by HPV infection and associated mortality are increasing. The need for better therapy is clear, and therapeutic vaccination generating cytotoxic T cells against HPV proteins is a promising strategy. This review covers the current scene of HPV therapeutic vaccines in clinical development and discusses relevant considerations for the design of future HPV therapeutic vaccines and clinical trials, such as HPV protein expression patterns, immunogenicity, and exhaustion in relation to the different stages and types of HPV-associated lesions and cancers. Ultimately, while the majority of the HPV therapeutic vaccines currently in clinical testing target the two HPV oncoproteins E6 and E7, we suggest that there is a need to include more HPV antigens in future HPV therapeutic vaccines to increase efficacy and find that especially E1 and E2 could be promising novel targets.

Current salivary biomarkers for detection of human papilloma virus-induced oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma

Human papilloma virus (HPV) infection is a key risk factor and etiology for oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OPSCC). HPV-induced OPSCC is rapidly increasing in incidence, with men experiencing increased mortality. When identified at an early stage, HPV-induced OPSCC can be successfully treated. Diagnosis of HPV-related OPSCC relies on an expert physical examination and invasive biopsy. Since saliva bathes the oropharyngeal mucosa and can be collected noninvasively, saliva obtained via salivary risings is an attractive body fluid for early detection of HPV-induced OPSCC. A plethora of DNA, RNA, and protein salivary biomarkers have been explored. This review discusses these markers and their robustness for detecting oncogenic HPV in OPSCC saliva samples. Methods detecting HPV DNA were more reliable than those detecting RNA, albeit both require time-consuming analyses. Salivary HPV proteomics are a new, promising focus of HPV detection research, and while more practical, lag behind nucleic acid detection methods in their development.

Cancer of the Oropharynx and the Association with Human Papillomavirus

Squamous cell carcinoma of the oropharynx (OPC) consists of human papillomavirus (HPV)-negative disease caused by tobacco and alcohol use, and HPV-positive disease caused by the sexually transmitted infection HPV. These entities have unique but overlapping risk factors, epidemiologic trends, staging systems, and survival outcomes. HPV-positive tumor status confers a significant survival benefit compared with HPV-negative disease. OPC treatment entails a combination of surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy. Ongoing trials will determine whether treatment of HPV-related disease may be safely deintensified to decrease morbidity. Emerging HPV-related biomarkers are under study as tools to inform screening, diagnosis, treatment, and surveillance for HPV-positive OPC.

Relevance of Human Papillomaviruses in Head and Neck Cancer-What Remains in 2021 from a Clinician's Point of View?

Human papillomaviruses (HPV) cause a subset of head and neck cancers (HNSCC). HPV16 predominantly signs responsible for approximately 10% of all HNSCC and over 50% of tonsillar (T)SCCs. Prevalence rates depend on several factors, such as the geographical region where patients live, possibly due to different social and sexual habits. Smoking plays an important role, with non-smoking patients being mostly HPV-positive and smokers being mostly HPV-negative. This is of unparalleled clinical relevance, as the outcome of (non-smoking) HPV-positive patients is significantly better, albeit with standard and not with de-escalated therapies. The results of the first prospective de-escalation studies have dampened hopes that similar superior survival can be achieved with de-escalated therapy. In this context, it is important to note that the inclusion of p16^INK4A (a surrogate marker for HPV-positivity) in the 8th TMN-classification has only prognostic, not therapeutic, intent. To avoid misclassification, highest precision in determining HPV-status is of utmost importance. Whenever possible, PCR-based methods, still referred to as the "gold standard”, should be used. New diagnostic antibodies represent some hope, e.g., to detect primaries and recurrences early. Prophylactic HPV vaccination should lead to a decline in HPV-driven HNSCC as well. This review discusses the above aspects in detail.

Sensitivity and Specificity of Human Papillomavirus (HPV) 16 Early Antigen Serology for HPV-Driven Oropharyngeal Cancer: A Systematic Literature Review and Meta-Analysis

Simple Summary

Serum antibodies against human papillomavirus 16 (HPV16) proteins are associated with HPV-driven oropharyngeal cancer (HPV-OPC). The HPV status of OPC cases is clinically relevant because patients with HPV-OPC show improved survival and treatment response compared to tobacco- or alcohol-induced OPC. In clinical settings, molecular HPV tumor status is usually determined by tissue-based methods detecting molecular markers, such as viral nucleic acids or p16 overexpression. Antibodies against HPV16 in peripheral blood were shown to be very accurate in determining the molecular HPV tumor status in multiple studies. In this work, we reviewed and summarized the available literature on the performance of HPV16 serology for E2, E6 and E7 antibodies to determine molecular HPV tumor status in OPC cases in comparison with tissue-based reference methods. We calculated summary estimates across different studies for sensitivity and specificity, and we investigated factors influencing test performance.

Abstract

Antibodies against HPV16 early proteins have been shown to be promising biomarkers for the identification of HPV-driven oropharyngeal cancer (HPV-OPC) among OPC cases in multiple studies. A systematic literature search was performed to identify original research articles comparing HPV early antigen serology with established reference methods to determine molecular HPV tumor status. Random-effects models were used to calculate summary estimates for sensitivity and specificity of HPV16 E2, E6 and E7 serology for HPV-OPC. Subgroup analyses were performed to explore heterogeneity across studies and describe variables associated with test performance. We identified n = 23 studies meeting all eligibility criteria and included these in the meta-analysis. E6 serology showed the best performance with pooled sensitivity and specificity estimates of 83.1% (95% confidence interval (CI) 72.5–90.2%) and 94.6% (95% CI 89.0–97.4%), respectively, while E2 and E7 serological assays were highly specific (E2: 92.5% (95% CI 79.1–97.6%); E7: 88.5% (95% CI 77.9–94.4%)) but moderately sensitive (E2: 67.8% (95% CI 58.9–75.6%); E7: 67.0% (95% CI 63.2–70.6%)). Subgroup analyses revealed increased pooled sensitivity for bacterially (89.9% (95% CI 84.5–93.6%)) vs. in vitro expressed E6 antigen (55.3% (95% CI 41.0–68.7%)), while both showed high specificity (95.2% (95% CI 93.0–96.7%) and 91.1% (95% CI 46.6–99.2%), respectively). Pooled specificity estimates for HPV16 E2, E6 and E7 serology were significantly lower in studies utilizing HPV DNA PCR as the only molecular reference method compared to those using a combination of any two reference methods (HPV DNA, RNA, in situ hybridization (ISH), p16 immunohistochemistry (IHC)), or histopathological reference methods (ISH or p16 IHC) as stand-alone marker. In conclusion, HPV16 E6 seropositivity is a highly sensitive and specific biomarker for HPV-OPC. However, its performance differs between serological assays and depends on molecular reference methods.

Virus-Associated Biomarkers in Oropharyngeal and Nasopharyngeal Cancers and Recurrent Respiratory Papillomatosis

Nasopharyngeal cancer (NPC) is known to be associated with Epstein–Barr virus (EBV). Pre-treatment and post-treatment detection of plasma cell-free EBV DNA has been shown to be useful as a diagnostic as well as a prognostic factor in NPC. On the other hand, the incidence of human papillomavirus (HPV)-associated oropharyngeal cancer (OPC) is increasing. In contrast to cervical cancer, which is classically known to be an HPV-associated malignancy, HPV testing is not clinically applied for OPC, except for p16 immunostaining as a surrogate marker of HPV infection. One of the major characteristics of HPV-associated OPC is its association with a good prognosis compared with non-HPV-associated OPC. However, some patients still have a poor prognosis. Another characteristic of HPV-associated OPC is the distinct risk factor of high sexual activity. Establishing a biomarker for the prediction of the prognosis before and/or after initial treatment, as well as for diagnosis in populations at high risk, is of marked interest. With this background, HPV DNA detection in plasma and oral rinses has become an area of focus. In this review, the current significance of HPV DNA detection in plasma and oral rinse samples, as well as serum HPV antibody levels, is evaluated.

Oral Cancer Screening: Past, Present, and Future

Oral cancer is a major public health problem, and there is an increasing trend for oral cancer to affect young men and women. Public awareness is poor, and many patients present with late-stage disease, contributing to high mortality. Oral cancer is often preceded by a clinical premalignant phase accessible to visual inspection, and thus there are opportunities for earlier detection and to reduce morbidity and mortality. Screening asymptomatic individuals by systematic visual oral examinations to detect the disease has been shown to be feasible. A positive screen includes both oral cancer and oral potentially malignant disorders. We review key screening studies undertaken, including 1 randomized clinical trial. Screening of high-risk groups is cost-effective. Strengths and weaknesses of oral cancer screening studies are presented to help guide new research in primary care settings and invigorated by the prospect of using emerging new technologies that may help to improve discriminatory accuracy of case detection. Most national organizations, including the US Preventive Services Task Force, have so far not recommended population-based screening due a lack of sufficient evidence that screening leads to a reduction in oral cancer mortality. Where health care resources are high, opportunistic screening in dental practices is recommended, although the paucity of research in primary care is alarming. The results of surveys suggest that dentists do perform oral cancer screenings, but there is only weak evidence that screening in dental practices leads to downstaging of disease. Where health care resources are low, the feasibility of using primary health care workers for oral cancer screening has been tested, and measures indicate good outcomes. Most studies reported in the literature are based on 1 round of screening, whereas screening should be a continuous process. This review identifies a huge potential for new research directions on screening for oral cancer.

Blood-based biomarkers of human papillomavirus-associated cancers: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Despite the significant societal burden of human papillomavirus (HPV)-associated cancers, clinical screening interventions for HPV-associated noncervical cancers are not available. Blood-based biomarkers may help close this gap in care.

METHODS

Five databases were searched, 5687 articles were identified, and 3631 unique candidate titles and abstracts were independently reviewed by 2 authors; 702 articles underwent a full-text review. Eligibility criteria included the assessment of a blood-based biomarker within a cohort or case-control study.

RESULTS

One hundred thirty-seven studies were included. Among all biomarkers assessed, HPV-16 E seropositivity and circulating HPV DNA were most significantly correlated with HPV-associated cancers in comparison with cancer-free controls. In most scenarios, HPV-16 E6 seropositivity varied nonsignificantly according to tumor type, specimen collection timing, and anatomic site (crude odds ratio [cOR] for p16+ or HPV+ oropharyngeal cancer [OPC], 133.10; 95% confidence interval [CI], 59.40-298.21; cOR for HPV-unspecified OPC, 25.41; 95% CI, 8.71-74.06; cOR for prediagnostic HPV-unspecified OPC, 59.00; 95% CI, 15.39-226.25; cOR for HPV-unspecified cervical cancer, 12.05; 95% CI, 3.23-44.97; cOR for HPV-unspecified anal cancer, 73.60; 95% CI, 19.68-275.33; cOR for HPV-unspecified penile cancer, 16.25; 95% CI, 2.83-93.48). Circulating HPV-16 DNA was a valid biomarker for cervical cancer (cOR, 15.72; 95% CI, 3.41-72.57). In 3 cervical cancer case-control studies, cases exhibited unique microRNA expression profiles in comparison with controls. Other assessed biomarker candidates were not valid.

CONCLUSIONS

HPV-16 E6 antibodies and circulating HPV-16 DNA are the most robustly analyzed and most promising blood-based biomarkers for HPV-associated cancers to date. Comparative validity analyses are warranted. Variations in tumor type-specific, high-risk HPV DNA prevalence according to anatomic site and world region highlight the need for biomarkers targeting more high-risk HPV types. Further investigation of blood-based microRNA expression profiling appears indicated.

State of the Science: Screening, Surveillance, and Epidemiology of HPV-Related Malignancies

Oropharyngeal, cervical, vulvar, and anal cancers share a common risk factor of HPV infection. HPV vaccination is currently recommended at age 11 or 12 to prevent new HPV infections for all genders with catch-up vaccination recommened up to age 26. Despite the known effectiveness of HPV vaccination to prevent HPV-related cancer, there is continued low uptake in the United States; only 40% of eligible persons were vaccinated in 2018, though rates are 70% among teenagers. Current American Cancer Society cancer screening guidelines recommend cervical cancer screening, but do not have specific recommendations for screening for other HPV-related cancers. Oropharyngeal cancer precursors have yet to be identified, and there are currently no routine screening tests for oropharyngeal cancer recommended by the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force. The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force and American Cancer Society recommend cervical cancer screening for women at average risk up to age 65, and screening guidelines do not currently differ by HPV vaccination status. Primary HPV DNA testing was first approved for cervical cancer screening in 2016 and was shown to be superior for cervical cancer prevention. Vulvar and anal cancer precursors have been identified, but optimal screening remains unclear. Examination of the anal canal and perianus is best performed by trained clinicians using high-resolution anoscopy, and effectiveness of using high-resolution anoscopy to detect and treat anal high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions to prevent cancer is actively being researched. Current multistep approaches to control HPV-related malignancies include HPV vaccination coupled with cervical cancer screening or surveillance for oropharyngeal, vulvar, and anal cancers.

Value and Unmet Needs in Non-Invasive Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Testing for Oropharyngeal Cancer

Simple Summary

As the leading human papillomavirus (HPV)-related cancer, oropharyngeal cancer places a significant burden on patients, families, and health systems. Techniques to easily and quickly test people for HPV through non-invasive means (saliva or blood tests) could, in principle, help us better understand this disease, prevent it, and treat it. However, there is currently no standardized methodology for testing saliva or blood for HPV, and such testing is not a part of routine clinical practice. In this review, we discuss and compare some of the collection and testing platforms that researchers have studied to date. We also evaluate the potential strengths and limitations of these technologies for addressing unmet needs in specific clinical contexts.

Abstract

The burden of human papillomavirus (HPV)-related oropharyngeal cancer (OPC) has risen, now representing the most common HPV-related malignancy. For years, researchers have explored the utility of measuring HPV-related markers from mouth, throat, and blood samples, often with the aim of gathering more information about an existing HPV-related tumor in a given patient. We review the widely varying methods for collecting and testing saliva and blood samples and offer guidance for standardizing these practices. We then review an array of clinical contexts in which non-invasive testing holds the most promise for potentially addressing unmet needs. In particular, such testing could help clinicians and researchers monitor the effects of vaccination and treatment. Meanwhile, due to the currently incomplete understanding of how carrying HPV relates to infection and subsequent oncogenesis, non-invasive testing methods may not be suitable for the screening setting at this time.

Long-term Persistence of Oral HPV Over 7 Years of Follow-up

Background

Human papillomavirus–related oropharyngeal cancer (HPV-OPC) incidence is increasing, but the natural history of the precursor—oral HPV—has not been well described.

Methods

This observational cohort study of people living with HIV and at-risk HIV uninfected people evaluated participants semiannually using 30-second oral rinse and gargle specimens over 7 years. Initially, 447 participants were followed for 4 years as part of the Persistent Oral Papillomavirus Study, and a subset of 128 who showed persistent infections at the last Persistent Oral Papillomavirus Study visit had an additional visit, as part of the Men and Women Understanding Throat HPV Study, on average 2.5 years later. Extracted DNA from oral rinse and gargle specimens was amplified using polymerase chain reaction and type specification of 13 oncogenic HPV types. Risk factors for oncogenic oral HPV clearance were evaluated using Cox models.

Results

The majority of oncogenic oral HPV infections cleared quickly, with a median time to clearance of 1.4 years (interquartile range = 0.5-3.9 years). After 7 years of follow-up, 97% of incident and 71% of prevalent infections had cleared. Lower HPV-16 viral load was statistically significantly associated with clearance (per 10-fold decrease in copy number: adjusted hazard ratio [aHR] = 2.51, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.20 to 5.26; P = .01). Adjusted analyses showed that oncogenic oral HPV clearance was lower among prevalent than incident-detected infections (aHR = 0.44, 95% CI = 0.35 to 0.55), among men than women (aHR = 0.74, 95% CI = 0.60 to 0.91), for older participants (aHR per 10 years increasing age = 0.81, 95% CI = 0.74 to 0.89), and among people living with HIV (aHR = 0.76, 95% CI = 0.60 to 0.95). One participant who had oral HPV-16 consistently detected at 10 study visits over 4.5 years was subsequently diagnosed with HPV-OPC.

Conclusions

This prospective study of oncogenic oral HPV infection is the longest and largest quantification of oral HPV-16 infections to date.

Abnormal cytology in oropharyngeal brushings and in oral rinses is not associated with HPV infection: The OHMAR study

BACKGROUND

No screening is available for human papillomavirus (HPV)-associated oropharyngeal cancers. The authors investigated whether cytology may be used as a screening tool and whether oral HPV infection is associated with cytologic abnormalities detected in oropharyngeal brushings and in oral rinse-and-gargle specimens from asymptomatic individuals at increased risk for oral HPV infection.

METHODS

Specimens were collected from men who have sex with men at 6-month intervals. Oropharyngeal samples and oral rinse-and-gargle specimens were collected using a cytobrush and mouthwash, respectively. Exfoliated cells were dispersed in PreservCyt. Liquid-based slides were stained with Papanicolaou. An HPV genotyping test using a linear array was used for HPV detection. Associations with abnormal cytology were investigated using logistic regression.

RESULTS

Overall, 631 brushings and 802 rinses collected from 310 individuals were evaluated; of these specimens, 2 brushings (0.3%) and 10 rinses (1.2%) were inadequate for morphologic evaluation. Of the adequate samples, 35 of 629 brushings (5.5%) and 19 of 792 rinses (2.4%) were abnormal. No associations of high-risk HPVs or HPV-16 infection with cytologic abnormalities were observed for oropharyngeal brushings (high-risk HPVs: odds ratio [OR], 1.19; 95% CI, 0.41-3.50; P = .75; HPV-16: OR, 0.76; 95% CI, 0.10-5.84; P = .79) or for oral rinses (high-risk HPVs: OR, 1.13; 95% CI, 0.26-4.98; P = .87; HPV-16: OR, 0.62; 95% CI, 0.04-10.60; P = .74). Concurrent moderate/heavy drinking and smoking significantly increased the risk of cytologic abnormalities in the brushings (hazard ratio, 4.84; 95% CI, 1.15-20.43; P = .03).

CONCLUSIONS

Oral HPV infection by high-risk HPVs and HPV-16 does not confer an increased risk of cytologic abnormalities in oropharyngeal brushings and oral rinses. Abnormal cytology seems to be associated with smoking and drinking habits.

An Integrated Approach for Preventing Oral Cavity and Oropharyngeal Cancers: Two Etiologies with Distinct and Shared Mechanisms of Carcinogenesis

Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) was the 7th most common malignancy worldwide in 2018 and despite therapeutic advances, the overall survival rate for oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC; ∼50%) has remained unchanged for decades. The most common types are OSCC and oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OPSCC, survival rate ∼85%). Tobacco smoking is a major risk factor of HNSCC. In the developed world, the incidence of OSCC is declining as a result of tobacco cessation programs. However, OPSCC, which is also linked to human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, is on the rise and now ranks as the most common HPV-related cancer. The current state of knowledge indicates that HPV-associated disease differs substantially from other types of HNSCC and distinct biological differences between HPV-positive and HPV-negative HNSCC have been identified. Although risk factors have been extensively discussed in the literature, there are multiple clinically relevant questions that remain unanswered and even unexplored. Moreover, existing approaches (e.g., tobacco cessation, vaccination, and chemoprevention) to manage and control this disease remain a challenge. Thus, in this review, we discuss potential future basic research that can assist in a better understanding of disease pathogenesis which may lead to novel and more effective preventive strategies for OSCC and OPSCC.

CD44 and associated markers in oral rinses and tissues from oral and oropharyngeal cancer patients

OBJECTIVES

Oral and oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OOPSCC) is a debilitating disease. Salivary rinses contain soluble tumor markers including CD44 (solCD44) and total protein (TP) that may aid detection and prognosis of these aggressive tumors. Here we aim to examine the relationship between these salivary biomarkers and tissue markers p16 and CD44 and determine whether these markers can predict progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Prospective study to update biomarkers using oral rinses and tissues from OOPSC patients enrolled between 2007 and 2012 at an academic tertiary referral center. 64 cases from a 300-subject case-control study with archived tissue for immunohistochemistry were included.

RESULTS

82.8% were male, 84.4% were ever smokers, 70.3% had disease stage T3-T4, and 57.8% presented with nodal disease. Nineteen patients (25%) were p16 positive. The group with strong tissue CD44 expression in membrane and cytoplasm had higher levels of solCD44 (mean 10.73 ng/ml) than other groups (5.47 ng/ml) (p = 0.033). TP levels were significantly reduced in oral rinses from subjects with p16 universal gross tumor tissue staining (mean 0.80 vs. 1.08 mg/ml; p = 0.039). On multivariate analysis, universal CD44 gross tissue staining and TP levels ≥ 1 mg/ml demonstrated poorer PFS, with the latter also affecting OS. Poorer survival was associated with soluble CD44 ≥ 5.33 ng/ml and TP ≥ 1 mg/ml.

CONCLUSIONS

Direct associations were found between high solCD44 levels and strong membrane and cytoplasmic CD44 expression, and between high TP levels and peripheral/mixed p16 gross staining. Poorer PFS and OS are significantly associated with higher levels of solCD44 and protein in oral rinses.

Development and validation of a multiplex immunoassay for the simultaneous quantification of type-specific IgG antibodies to E6/E7 oncoproteins of HPV16 and HPV18

More than 170 types of human papilloma viruses (HPV) exist with many causing proliferative diseases linked to malignancy in indications such as cervical cancer and head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. Characterization of antibody levels toward HPV serology is challenging due to complex biology of oncoproteins, pre-existing titers to multiple HPV types, cross-reactivity, and low affinity, polyclonal responses. Using multiplex technology from MSD, we have developed an assay that simultaneously characterizes antibodies against E6 and E7 oncoproteins of HPV16 and 18, the primary drivers of HPV-associated oncogenesis. We fusion tagged our E6 and E7 proteins with MBP via two-step purification, spot-printed an optimized concentration of protein into wells of MSD 96-well plates, and assayed various cynomolgus monkey, human and HPV+ cervical cancer patient serum to validate the assay. The dynamic range of the assay covered 4-orders of magnitude and antibodies were detected in serum at a dilution up to 100,000-fold. The assay was very precise (n = 5 assay runs) with median CV of human serum samples ~ 5.3% and inter-run variability of 11.4%. The multiplex serology method has strong cross-reactivity between E6 oncoproteins from human serum samples as HPV18 E6 antigens neutralized 5 of 6 serum samples as strongly as HPV16 E6. Moderate concordance (Spearman’s Rank = 0.775) was found between antibody responses against HPV16 E7 in the multiplex assay compared to standard ELISA serology methods. These results demonstrate the development of a high-throughput, multi-plex assay that requires lower sample quantity input with greater dynamic range to detect type-specific anti-HPV concentrations to E6 and E7 oncoproteins of HPV16 and 18.

A Current Update on Human Papillomavirus-Associated Head and Neck Cancers

Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection is the cause of a growing percentage of head and neck cancers (HNC); primarily, a subset of oral squamous cell carcinoma, oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma, and laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma. The majority of HPV-associated head and neck cancers (HPV + HNC) are caused by HPV16; additionally, co-factors such as smoking and immunosuppression contribute to the progression of HPV + HNC by interfering with tumor suppressor miRNA and impairing mediators of the immune system. This review summarizes current studies on HPV + HNC, ranging from potential modes of oral transmission of HPV (sexual, self-inoculation, vertical and horizontal transmissions), discrepancy in the distribution of HPV + HNC between anatomical sites in the head and neck region, and to studies showing that HPV vaccines have the potential to protect against oral HPV infection (especially against the HPV types included in the vaccines). The review concludes with a discussion of major challenges in the field and prospects for the future: challenges in diagnosing HPV + HNC at early stages of the disease, measures to reduce discrepancy in the prevalence of HPV + HNC cases between anatomical sites, and suggestions to assess whether fomites/breast milk can transmit HPV to the oral cavity.