The B7 family molecules in oral squamous cell carcinoma: a systematic review. Part I: B7-H1 (PD-L1) and B7-DC (PD-L2)

Postepy Dermatol Alergol. 2022 Apr;39(2):265-274. doi: 10.5114/ada.2020.98522. Epub 2020 Oct 13.

Abstract

Introduction: Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is the most common cancerous lesion in the oral cavity. During recent years, no significant reduction in the survival rate has been observed.

Aim: To systematically review the literature and to summarise correlations between B7 family proteins and prognosis in OSCC.

Material and methods: A systematic review of the literature about B7-H1 (PD-L1) and B7-DC (PD-L2) was carried out, following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Thirty-six articles published before 22 May 2020 were included in the systematic review.

Results: The biggest study group consisted of 305 patients and the smallest - 10 patients. PD-L1 proved to be a prognostic factor in patients with OSCC. Immunohistochemistry was the most commonly used diagnostic method.

Conclusions: Any mutations in the gene encoding PD-L1 and quantitative or functional changes in the status of PD-L1 may be important in the prognosis of OSCC.

Keywords: B7 antigens; oral cavity; squamous cell carcinoma.