Study to investigate the prevalence of human papillomavirus in Barrett's oesophagus using a novel screening methodology. Issue 1 (4th April 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: White, Jonathan Richard; Ragunath, Krish; Whitton, Aimee; Marsh, Elizabeth; Kaye, Philip; Knight, Gillian
• Is Part Of: BMJ open gastroenterology. Volume 9:Issue 1(2022)
• Publication Date: 2022-04-04
• Subjects: Barrett's oesophagus -- oesophageal cancer -- polymerase chain reaction; Gastroenterology -- Periodicals; 616.33005
• DOI: 10.1136/bmjgast-2021-000840
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2054-4774

Abstract

Abstract : Introduction: Human papillomavirus (HPV) is strongly associated with Barrett's dysplasia and oesophageal cancer suggesting a role in carcinogenesis. HPV persistence predicts treatment failure after endotherapy for Barrett's dysplasia. This pilot study applies a novel HPV screening tool (previously only used in the oropharynx) to detect HPV DNA directly and determine the prevalence rates in Barrett's oesophagus (BO). Method: DNA was extracted from 20 formalin-fixed BO samples. HPV DNA was detected using real-time PCR and gel electrophoresis. Results: 5 out of 20 patients were identified as positive for HPV. Prevalence was 25% in patients with BO. Conclusion: This method can be used in BO's tissue to determine HPV infection. Adoption of this as a screening test could potentially revolutionise future research in this area. If a clear link between HPV and Barrett's dysplasia can be confirmed, this qPCR method has the potential to aid in monitoring and/or dysplasia detection by stratifying those most at risk and aid in the development of new therapies.