LAUSR

Abstract Background Cases of Human papillomavirus (HPV)-associated oral and oropharyngeal cancer are increasing. Proper diagnostic tools are required to detect HPV among patients, especially in areas where high technology is lacking. Aims To provide mapping of HPV prevalence in Southeast Asia and to determine the effectivity of p16 as a surrogate biomarker for HPV infection in oral and oropharyngeal cancer. Methods Medical records of 56 patients diagnosed with oral and oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinomas (SCC) were reviewed. HPV PCR DNA and p16 immunohistochemistry (IHC) examination were performed to detect HPV positivity. Results HPV PCR prevalence in oropharyngeal SCC is 42.9% and 28.6% in oral SCC. P16 IHC has 67% sensitivity and 75% specificity in detecting HPV in oropharyngeal cancer, and 33% and 72% in oral cancer. Conclusion We conclude that p16 IHC with a 5% cut-off can be used as a surrogate biomarker for oropharyngeal SCC, but not oral SCC, in areas where resources are restricted. However, further diagnostic tools may be needed.