Immunolocalization of the Epstein-Barr nuclear antigen-1 in conjunctival squamous carcinomas and dysplasias

Hum Pathol. 2005 Apr;36(4):325-9. doi: 10.1016/j.humpath.2004.10.002.

Abstract

Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) has been linked etiologically to infectious mononucleosis, some non-Hodgkin as well as Hodgkin lymphomas, and lymphoepithelioma-like carcinomas. Moreover, various EBV antigens have been identified by a variety of techniques in a number of visceral carcinomas including breast, prostate, colon and lung primaries. We have now demonstrated by immunohistochemistry the presence of EBV nuclear antigen-1 (EBNA-1) in 4 of 15 cases of conjuntival squamous carcinomas and related dysplasias. At present, there is no significant evidence linking etiologically EVB to this type of tumor and dysplasia. However, our findings merit further investigation given the growing evidence that EBV may enhance proliferation and aggressiveness of tumor systems as well as the immortalization of non-neoplastic cells.

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Carcinoma in Situ / pathology
  • Carcinoma in Situ / virology*
  • Carcinoma, Squamous Cell / pathology
  • Carcinoma, Squamous Cell / virology*
  • Conjunctival Neoplasms / pathology
  • Conjunctival Neoplasms / virology*
  • Epstein-Barr Virus Nuclear Antigens / analysis*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Immunohistochemistry
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Polymerase Chain Reaction
  • Precancerous Conditions / pathology
  • Precancerous Conditions / virology
  • Tumor Virus Infections / pathology
  • Tumor Virus Infections / virology*

Substances

  • Epstein-Barr Virus Nuclear Antigens
  • EBV-encoded nuclear antigen 1