Human Papillomavirus and Epstein-Barr Virus and their Co-infection: Potential Biomarkers in Carcinogenesis, Tumor Progression in Human Bladder Cancer

The contribution of HPV and EBV to bladder cancer has been controversial. Recent studies suggest a significant association between HPV and bladder cancer; however, more investigations are needed to explore the possible role of EBV as well. This study aims to investigate the potential role of human papillomavirus (HPV) and Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) in the development of bladder cancer. We will first assess the prevalence of these two viruses and then their coinfection. Second, we will correlate their prevalence with clinical and pathological data, considering their mechanisms in cancer. HPV and EBV detection in samples of BC patients and healthy individuals using Nested PCR. 70 confirmed BC samples and 30 control cases were collected. HPV DNA and EBV DNA were detected using PCR nested to correlate the prevalence with clinical Data. HPV DNA was detected in 38 of BC and 17 of EBV DNA, and one coinfection of both viruses. Statistical analysis shows a significant correlation between HPV infection and Pathological T-stage and muscle invasion, P=0.002** and P=0.012** respectively, and a potential association with tobacco exposure P= 0.049 * - OR (95% CI) 3.862 (0.992-15.035); statistical significance was observed between EBV infection and muscle invasion, P=0.024 ** and one co-infection that shows aggressive forms of BC suggesting their interplay in BC and may increase the progression of BC. These results highlight a possible profile of HPV and EBV in BC that may be synergistic.