Prevalence of Oropharyngeal Squamous Cell Carcinoma (OPSCC) at Charlotte Maxeke Johannesburg Academic Hospital

Abstract

Context: Limited data regarding prevalence of oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OPSCC) in South Africa are available. Objective: Examine the prevalence of OPSCC at a Johannesburg Academic Hospital and describe demographics of affected patients, anatomic subsites and associated risk factors. Methods: All laboratory records of OPSCC cases over a 9-year period (July 2013-July 2022) were evaluated. Histological and clinical data were analysed. Results: OPSCC accounted for 32.1% of all head and neck squamous cell carcinomas. 67 men and 29 women were affected (mean age 60.31 years). Most affected subsites included tonsil (n=45) and base of tongue (n=38). Most cases showed keratinisation (n=63) and moderate differentiation (n=62). 16 cases were tested using p16 immunohistochemistry (IHC); 75% (n=12) showed p16-positivity. Five cases underwent HPV-DNA testing, two (40%) tested negative. Conclusion: OPSCC is a substantial burden in this cohort. Given the prognostic implications, routine p16 testing, with HPV-DNA testing if positive, should be implemented.