Sinonasal Schneiderian papillomas: human papillomavirus typing by polymerase chain reaction

A series of 35 formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded Schneiderian papillomas (24 inverted, nine cylindrical cell type, and two fungiform) of the nasal cavity were evaluated for the presence of human papillomavirus (HPV) types 6b/11, 16, and 18 DNA sequences using both a highly sensitive and specific modification of the polymerase chain reaction technique and conventional in situ hybridization. The HPV gene sequences (E6-E7 portions) were not detected in any of the 24 inverted or nine cylindrical cell papillomas. One of the fungiform papillomas was positive for HPV 6b/11. We conclude: (a) the origin of most Schneiderian sinonasal papillomas is not associated with HPV infection of these common types, and (b) fungiform papilloma is a distinctive clinicopathologic subtype of Schneiderian papilloma that may be HPV-related.