Current Status of p16 Immunohistochemistry and HPV Testing in Fine Needle Aspiration Specimens of the Head and Neck

Acta Cytol. 2020;64(1-2):30-39. doi: 10.1159/000496158. Epub 2019 Feb 15.

Abstract

Human papilloma virus (HPV)-related squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is biologically unique and has a better prognosis than conventional SCC of the head and neck. p16 immunohistochemistry emerged as a valuable surrogate marker for HPV in oropharyngeal SCC. The criteria for a positive p16 result in tissue specimens are well established. However, there is no consensus regarding interpreting p16 staining in cell blocks and other cytology specimens. This review discusses the current evidence on p16 testing in cytology specimens and also highlights other methods for HPV testing, including DNA and RNA in situ hybridization, as well as other molecular HPV tests.

Keywords: Cytology; Fine needle aspiration; Human papilloma virus; Squamous cell carcinoma; p16 immunohistochemistry.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Biomarkers, Tumor / metabolism*
  • Biopsy, Fine-Needle / methods
  • Carcinoma, Squamous Cell / diagnosis
  • Carcinoma, Squamous Cell / metabolism*
  • Carcinoma, Squamous Cell / pathology
  • Cyclin-Dependent Kinase Inhibitor p16 / metabolism*
  • Head and Neck Neoplasms / diagnosis
  • Head and Neck Neoplasms / metabolism*
  • Head and Neck Neoplasms / pathology
  • Humans
  • Immunohistochemistry / methods*
  • In Situ Hybridization / methods
  • Papillomaviridae / genetics
  • Papillomaviridae / physiology
  • Papillomavirus Infections / diagnosis
  • Papillomavirus Infections / metabolism*
  • Papillomavirus Infections / virology
  • Sensitivity and Specificity

Substances

  • Biomarkers, Tumor
  • Cyclin-Dependent Kinase Inhibitor p16