P16 expression in subsets of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma reported in Kenyatta National Hospital Nairobi, Kenya

Abstract

<h3>Background</h3> Human papilloma virus associated HNSCC differ from the non HPV-associated HNSCC in that HPV-HNSCC affects younger patients and has better prognosis. These subgroups cannot be readily differentiated on H/E; however, P16 immunohistochem-istry can be used to separate these tumours. Data on HPV associated HNSCC from our region is lacking. <h3>Objective</h3> To determine p16 expression and prevalence of HPV associated tumours in subsets of HNSCC at Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH). <h3>Methods</h3> A hundred and three HNSCC cases diagnosed from 2008 to 2013 were analyzed for P16 expression by IHC on FFPE blocks. <h3>Results</h3> Of the 103 cases, males were 73.8% while females 26.2%. Mean age was 57.4 years. Most tumours were well differentiated (63.1%), then moderately differentiated (28.2%), while 8% were poorly differentiated. Immunohistochemistry was done, of which 14.6% were positive for P16. Oral cavity had the highest (46.67%), then larynx (26.67%) and pharynx (26.67%). The majority of p16 positive HNSCC were found amongst males 66.7%. Poorly differentiated tumours had increased risk of being HPV associated (OR 2.1, 95% C.I 0.4–11.9). <h3>Conclusion</h3> HNSCC were more common in males, the majority being from the oral cavity. The overall HPV prevalence was 14.6% with poorly differentiated tumours having an increased risk of HPV association.