Human Papillomavirus Genotype Distribution in Penile Cancer: Clinical, Histopathological, Radiological Correlations, and Public Health Perspectives

Summary Human papillomavirus (HPV) appears to play an important role in the development of penile cancer. Research indicates geographical variations in HPV prevalence in penile cancer. Identifying the specific HPV genotypes involved in penile cancer is crucial for the development of targeted screening and vaccination initiatives. Hence, this study was conducted to determine the prevalence of HPV genotypes in penile carcinoma and to correlate that with certain histopathological, clinical, and radiological parameters. Biopsy samples from 27 penile carcinoma cases were subjected to real-time multiplex polymerase chain reaction. HPV prevalence was 74.1%, with multiple subtypes detected in 75% of patients. HPV 16 was the predominant genotype (75%). Other genotypes were detected as coinfection. This study revealed a high burden of HPV in penile carcinoma in Assam, with exposure to multiple sexual partners as a significant risk factor. Vaccination against High-risk-HPV should be given importance to reduce the overall burden of HPV-related malignancies.