Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 24, 2025

RNAscope for In situ Detection of Transcriptionally Active Human Papillomavirus in Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Published on: March 11, 2014
Update on Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the Nail Unit: An Human Papillomavirus-Associated Condition
Eric R Bray1, Antonella Tosti1, Brian W Morrison1
1Philip Frost Department of Dermatology and Cutaneous Surgery, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA.
Background:
Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) and SCC in situ (Bowen's disease) are the most common malignancies of the nail unit. They are frequently seen in men over 50 and most commonly affect the fingers. The role of high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV) infection has been identified as a key contributor to the development of nail unit SCC.
Summary:
In this review, we aimed to summarize the current state of our understanding of how HPV contributes to nail unit SCC, the role of genitodigital transmission of HPV, and the clinical features of HPV-associated nail unit SCC. We also review current advances in the treatment of nail unit SCC, with a focus on the potential role of HPV vaccination in the treatment and prevention of nail unit SCC.
Key Messages:
Nail unit SCC should be recognized as an HPV-associated disease. HPV vaccination may represent a non-surgical modality for the management of these challenging malignancies in the appropriate clinical setting.
Related Concept Videos
Skin Cancer
Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC): BCC is the most common type of skin cancer, accounting for about 80% of cases. It typically develops in...
Rous Sarcoma Virus (RSV) and Cancer
RSV is a retrovirus that contains two copies of a plus-strand RNA genome. Its genome consists of four main open...
Skin Diseases and Disorders
Gram-positive Staphylococcus spp. and Streptococcus spp. are responsible for many of the most common skin infections. However, many...
Mechanisms of Retrovirus-induced Cancers

