Human papilloma virus in neoplastic and non-neoplastic conditions of the external eye

Aim-Human papilloma virus (HPV) types 16 and 18 have been associated with neoplastic conditions of the conjunctiva. However, the presence of this virus has not been reported in non-neoplastic disorders of the external eye nor has it been studied in normal conjunctival tissues. Methods-Ninety six paraffin embedded tissue specimens with neoplastic and nonneoplastic lesions and 19 conjunctiva samples fi ee from overt disease were studied for HPV types 16 and 18 positivity with the polymerase chain reaction. Results-HPV types 16 and 18 DNA were identified in 57% of in situ squamous cell carcinoma, in 55% of invasive squamous cell carcinoma, in 20% of climatic droplet keratopathy, in 35% of scarred corneas, and in 32% of normal conjunctival tissue obtained during routine cataract extractions. Conclusion-These findings indicate that HPV types 16 and 18 are detectable with the polymerase chain reaction not only in epithelial neoplasms of the ocular mucous membrane but also in non-neoplastic lesions as well as in apparently healthy conjunctiva.