Papillomavirus infection and squamous cell carcinoma in horses. (May 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Sykora, Sabine; Brandt, Sabine
• Is Part Of: Veterinary journal. Volume 223(2017)
• Page Start: 48
• Page End: 54
• Publication Date: 2017-05
• Subjects: EcPV2 -- Horse -- Papillomavirus -- Squamous cell carcinoma -- Tumour; Veterinary medicine -- Periodicals; 636
• DOI: 10.1016/j.tvjl.2017.05.007
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1090-0233

Abstract

Highlights: Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is a common malignant tumour in equids. There is ample evidence indicating that Equus caballus papillomavirus type 2 (EcPV2) is the causative agent for genital SCC. Recent data suggest that EcPV2 can also cause a subset of SCCs of the head. Thus far, papillomavirus infection has not been related to ocular SCC. EcPV2 late (L) capsid protein L1 virus-like particles (VLPs) are proposed for the prevention of EcPV2 infection. Abstract: Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is a common disease that seriously impairs the health and welfare of affected horses and other equids. In humans, almost all cervical carcinomas, a high percentage of anogenital SCCs and a subset of SCCs of the head and neck are caused by high-risk human papillomavirus (hrHPV) infection. Since hrHPV-induced human cancers and equine SCC have similar cytological and histopathological features, it has been hypothesised that equine SCCs could also be induced by papillomaviruses. This review provides an overview of the current evidence for an aetiological association between papillomavirus infections and equine SCCs and SCC precursor lesions. SCC of apparently papillomavirus-unrelated aetiology are also discussed, as are recent advances in equine SCC prophylaxis.