Is p16INK4a protein expression in oral ST lesions a reliable precancerous marker?

This study correlates the expression of p16INK4a and p53 with the detection of high risk human papillomavirus (HPV) in three clinical grades of smokeless tobacco keratosis (STK) as compared with patients without a history of smokeless tobacco use. Tissue samples, including squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) were evaluated for the expression of p16INK4a and p53 by indirect immunohistochemical methods using commercially obtained antibodies. HPV DNA analysis was performed using consensus sequence polymerase chain reaction (PCR). At least focal p16INK4a expression was detected in Grade I, II and III STK, SCC and control samples of alveolar ridge keratoses (ARK). p16INK4a expression in STK and in ARK was typically weak but was relatively strong in all SCC. Strong p53 nuclear staining was detected in STK, SCC and ARK. HPV DNA was detected in Grade I, II and III STK, SCC and ARK, but did not correlate with p16INK4a expression. p16INK4a distribution did not correlate with STK grade and does not appear to be related to the detection of HPV DNA by PCR in either STK or in SCC. There is an apparent relationship between the grade of STK and the presence of HPV. HPV was rarely detected in high-grade lesions.