Human papillomavirus-associated small cell carcinoma/neuroendocrine carcinoma of the oropharynx: a report of two cases.

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Human papillomavirus-associated small cell carcinoma/neuroendocrine carcinoma of the oropharynx: a report of two cases.

Springerplus. 2016;5(1):1847

Authors: Misawa K, Kawasaki H, Matsuo R, Sugiyama K, Mochizuki D, Endo S, Imai A, Misawa Y, Yamatodani T, Mizuta K, Mineta H

Abstract
INTRODUCTION: Small cell carcinoma/neuroendocrine carcinoma (SCNEC) of the oropharynx is uncommon. Two cases of SCNEC in an 81-year-old woman and in a 54-year-old man are presented here.
CASE DESCRIPTION: We have documented two cases of SCNEC arising in the oropharynx with evidence of high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV) infection. Histologically, both cases were classified as poorly differentiated SCNEC with high nuclear-to-cytoplasmic ratios and nuclear molding. Observations using a transmission electron microscope revealed membrane-bound neuroendocrine granules in some tumor cells. Both tumors expressed high levels of p16, a surrogate marker for high-risk HPV infection. HPV infection was confirmed in both cases using HPV polymerase chain reaction analysis; HPV subtype 16 was identified in one case and HPV subtype 18 in the other.
DISCUSSION AND EVALUATION: SCNEC of the oropharynx is a rare and novel HPV-associated disease with neuroendocrine granules and aggressive clinical behavior.
CONCLUSIONS: Herein, we present two cases of SCNEC, focusing on its histologic features and treatment modalities. More studies are required to elucidate the pathophysiology of HPV-associated SCNEC in different organ systems.

PMID: 27818885 [PubMed - in process]

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