Association of the human papillomavirus infection with the recurrence of sinonasal inverted papilloma: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Background: Although the role of human papillomavirus (HPV) in sinonasal inverted papilloma (SNIP) has been investigated, the link between HPV infection and SNIP recurrence remains controversial. This meta-analysis aimed to investigate the association between HPV infection and recurrence of SNIP. Methods: The PubMed, Web of Science, Google Scholar, and Cochrane Library databases were searched (until 16 June 2021) to collect all relevant articles. The pooled odds ratio (OR) with 95% confidence interval (CI) was calculated using the fixed effects model. In addition, subgroup analysis, assessment of publication bias, and sensitivity analyses were performed. Results: Fourteen eligible articles, including 592 patients with SNIP, were included in this study. Pooled analysis revealed that HPV-positive cases exhibited a significantly higher OR of tumour recurrence than HPV-negative counterparts). A significant association between HPV infection and tumour recurrence remained stable in subgroup analyses according to the publication year of the studies. Conclusions: Our meta-analysis demonstrates that HPV infection is significantly associated with the recurrence of SNIP, suggesting the pathological role of HPV in SNIP. These results suggest that HPV infection should be considered in the management of SNIP.

Primary middle ear inverted papilloma – a case report

Inverted papilloma is a very rare finding in the middle ear. It is a benign, though locally aggressive tumour with a tendency towards malignant transformation. The dia­gnosis is usually established postoperatively, based on the histological examination, because the local finding is not specific and resembles chronically inflamed tissue in chronic otitis media. Surgery is the treatment of choice. Radiotherapy is reserved for inoperable tumours or a recurrent disease. In this case report, we present a case of a 62-year-old man, who underwent canal wall down tympanoplasty for chronic otitis media in a district hospital many years ago. A few years ago he was examined for pulsatile tinnitus and hearing impairment at our clinic. A combined-approach tympanoplasty did not reveal the expected tumour (only stiff scars) and a clearance of the middle ear cavity was performed. Histological examination revealed an inverted papilloma. A CT scan performed postoperatively proved a tumour persistence. Therefore, a radical mastoidectomy was indicated. The patient is disease-free with no signs of recurrence during 32-month follow-up. Keywords: inverted papilloma – Middle ear – radical mastoidectomy