Human papillomavirus and breast cancer: no evidence of association in a Spanish set of cases.

BACKGROUND/AIM Great controversy exists about the association between Human Papillomavirus (HPV) and breast tumors. The aim of this study was to explore the presence of HPV DNA in a large set of breast cancer cases. MATERIALS AND METHODS Techniques used followed the standards for an international retrospective survey of HPV-DNA genotyping, coordinated by our own group and the DDL Laboratories in Rijswijk, the Netherlands. Paraffin-embedded samples were used. SPF-10 broad-spectrum primers were applied, followed by deoxyribonucleic acid enzyme immunoassay and genotyping by reverse-line probe assay. RESULTS A total of 78 samples were included in the study, 2 of benign conditions and 76 carcinomas, including different histological subtypes. HPV was not present in any of the specimens studied irrespective of histology, hormonal status and stage of disease. CONCLUSION Our data do not support the involvement of HPV in breast carcinogenesis as no evidence of its presence was found.