Human papillomavirus and breast cancer: no evidence of association in a Spanish set of cases

Abstract

Background/aim: Great controversy exists about the association between Human Papillomavirus (HPV) and breast tumors. The aim of this study was to explore the presence of HPV DNA in a large set of breast cancer cases.

Materials and methods: Techniques used followed the standards for an international retrospective survey of HPV-DNA genotyping, coordinated by our own group and the DDL Laboratories in Rijswijk, the Netherlands. Paraffin-embedded samples were used. SPF-10 broad-spectrum primers were applied, followed by deoxyribonucleic acid enzyme immunoassay and genotyping by reverse-line probe assay.

Results: A total of 78 samples were included in the study, 2 of benign conditions and 76 carcinomas, including different histological subtypes. HPV was not present in any of the specimens studied irrespective of histology, hormonal status and stage of disease.

Conclusion: Our data do not support the involvement of HPV in breast carcinogenesis as no evidence of its presence was found.

Keywords: Breast cancer; human papillomavirus; polymerase chain reaction.