Review Article
Alltalents T Murahwa, Monalisa
Abstract
Accumulating evidence on beta and gamma Human Papillomavirus (HPV) genera, show its association with nonmelanoma skin cancers (NMSC). Current methods for detection of HPV in clinical specimens are molecular based. A variety of molecular techniques developed for diagnosis of HPV; focus more on detection of mucosal HPV types. A limited number of assays have been developed to detect and genotype cutaneous HPVs. These assays detect a proportion of the HPV types implicated in skin lesions with differing sensitivities and specificities. Conflicting literature on the prevalence of HPV in NMSC has resulted from the inconsistent diagnostic standards. This review discusses the methods available for detection and genotyping of HPVs with emphasis on cutaneous HPV genotypes. This information will provide researchers the relevant choices of molecular methods applicable to epidemiological surveys. The ultimate objective is to make automated, rapid and cheaper molecular approaches for resource poor settings.