Prognostic Role of p16/HPV in Non-oropharyngeal Head and Neck Squamous Cell Cancer (HNSCC)

Transcriptionally active HPV infection is recognized as a prognostic factor in oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma. Also, p16 positivity has been established as an effective surrogate biomarker for HPV and shares its prognostic significance in cancer of the oropharynx. Less clear is the prognostic role of p16/HPV status in non-oropharyngeal head and neck cancers since relevant studies have produced conflicting results. The existing evidence suggests that p16 is a poor surrogate marker for HPV infection in non-oropharyngeal cancers, while the prognostic impact of HPV positivity is reserved for the oropharynx. Consequently, routine HPV testing is not recommended for disease sites of the head and neck outside oropharynx.