Certain HPV16 antibodies may predict oropharyngeal cancer survival

the Oncology Nurse Advisor take:

Certain human papillomavirus (HPV)-16 antibodies in the blood was associated with improved survival rates among patients with HPV-related oropharyngeal carcinoma, according to a new study.

For the study, researchers analyzed blood samples from 209 patients with previously untreated oropharyngeal carcinoma. Of those, 96 had confirmed HPV-positive disease. Samples were screened for HPV16 antibodies E1, E4-7, L1, L2, and the N-terminal and C-terminal fragments of E2.

Results showed that patients with any of the E antibodies had improved overall and progression-free survival versus those who tested negative for the antibodies. HPV-positive patients who tested positive for NE2, E1, or E6 antibodies also had a reduced mortality and disease progression risk.

Researchers found no survival advantage for people who tested positive for L antibodies.

Clinical trials are currently ongoing to evaluate whether vaccines can stimulate these antibodies to improve outcomes in patients with HPV-related cancers.