Control of Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV) in the Oral Cavity Is Associated With Persistence of Oral Human Papillomavirus (HPV)16/18 Among Men From the HPV Infection in Men Study

Abstract

HPV-related oropharyngeal cancer (OPC) incidence is increasing among men. Biomarkers that can identify oral HPV 16/18 infections likely to persist, the obligate precursor for HPV-OPC, are needed. Control of oral co-infections, including Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), could serve as a biomarker of immune competence and the ability to control oral HPV. We assessed the association between oral EBV and oral HPV 16/18 persistence among 63 men in the HIM Study who tested HPV16/18 positive. Detection of oral EBV was significantly associated with oral HPV 16/18 ≥ 12-month persistence and deserves evaluation as a biomarker for oral HPV persistence and related OPC.

Coinfections with additional oncoviruses in HPV+ individuals: Status, function and potential clinical implications

“…With a small sample size of 63 men, Dickey et al presented data suggesting that EBV coinfection may promote the persistence of HPV16/18 infection in the oral cavity. 27 Based on these results, the authors suggest that EBV DNA detected in the oral cavity may be a useful biomarker which may indicate reduced of immunity to respond to oral infections. Strycharz-Dudziak et al performed a study with 128 patients investigating the effects the coinfection can have on oxidative stress management as well as its influence on overall malignant transformation.…”

“…In the case of HPV‐associated oropharyngeal cancer, there is less work focused on population statistics and mechanistic studies. With a small sample size of 63 men, Dickey et al presented data suggesting that EBV coinfection may promote the persistence of HPV16/18 infection in the oral cavity 27 . Based on these results, the authors suggest that EBV DNA detected in the oral cavity may be a useful biomarker which may indicate reduced of immunity to respond to oral infections.…”