Recent advances in cutaneous HPV infection

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Virology
• Oncology

Background:

• Over 200 human papillomavirus (HPV) types are linked to numerous dermatological conditions.
• Viral verrucae are the most frequently reported HPV-associated dermatological disease.
• Epidermodysplasia verruciformis (EV) presents in typical, atypical, and acquired forms, often linked to genetic mutations or immunodeficiency.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the association of human papillomavirus (HPV) with dermatological diseases.
• To highlight HPV-induced skin malignancies, including squamous cell carcinoma (SCC).
• To focus on Bowen's disease of the nail, a significant area of ongoing research.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of HPV types and associated dermatological conditions.
• Analysis of HPV's role in benign and malignant skin lesions.
• Focus on specific HPV types (e.g., beta-HPV, high-risk mucosal HPV) and their carcinogenic pathways.

Main Results:

• HPV is implicated in common warts, EV, and various skin cancers.
• Beta-HPV types 5 and 8 are associated with SCC in EV patients, transplant recipients, and healthy individuals, with sunlight as a cofactor.
• Mucosal high-risk HPV infections can lead to vulvar and nail unit SCC, potentially sexually transmitted.

Conclusions:

• Human papillomavirus (HPV) plays a critical role in both benign and malignant skin conditions.
• Understanding HPV types and their associated risks is crucial for diagnosis and management of skin diseases.
• Bowen's disease of the nail, an HPV-associated condition, warrants continued research and clinical attention.