Human papillomavirus DNA prevalence and type distribution in oral squamous cell carcinoma in Ghana

Objective: To determine the prevalence of human papillomavirus (HPV) DNA in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). Methods: A total of 88 OSCC specimens collected between 2006 and 2013 were available for the study. DNA was extracted using formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded specimens and analysed for the presence of 18 HPV genotypes using a nested polymerase chain reaction using consensus forward primer (GP-E6-3F) and two consensus back primers (GP-E7-5B and GP-E7-6B). Plasmid DNA of HPV 16 and 18 was used as positive controls. Results: HPV DNA was detected in 3 of the 88 samples, a prevalence of 3.4%. Genotypes detected were 16, 18 and 52. Conclusion: The overall prevalence of HPV DNA was 3.4%. Only high-risk genotypes were detected. This low prevalence of high-risk types of HPV suggests that the HPV virus may not have a significant role in the development of oral cancers in Ghana, unlike higher rates described elsewhere in the world, especially in Western countries. Surveillance of future prevalence of HPV and attention to other major risk factors is warranted.