p16 overexpression identifies oncogenic high-risk HPV infection in non-oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck.

Background: Human papillomavirus (HPV) is an increasing risk factor for cancer. HPV-associated oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OPSCC) is associated with a favorable outcome. Blockstaining for p16 is a surrogate marker for HPV+ OPSCC.