Human papillomavirus is detected in transitional cell carcinoma arising in renal transplant recipients.

Aims: We investigated the role of human papillomavirus (HPV) in the development of transitional cell carcinoma (TCC) arising in renal transplant recipients.

Methods: Genomic DNA was extracted from 10 microm paraffin embedded sections of five TCCs arising in five renal transplant recipients using the QIAamp DNA mini kit according to the manufacturer's instructions. beta-globin PCR was performed to test DNA adequacy. Samples were tested for the presence of HPV DNA by broad spectrum HPV PCR method using non-biotinylated SPF10 primers (SPF1A, SPF1B, SPF1C, SPF1D, SPF2B, SPF2D) which amplify a short 65 bp fragment. Positive bands were identified on a 3% gel. Positive samples underwent a second HPV PCR and were amplified using biotinylated SPF10 primer set, which amplifies the same 65 bp region of the L1 open reading frame. INNO-LiPA line probe assay was then performed to genotype the samples which uses a reverse hybridisation principle.

Results: Four of five TCCs examined were positive for HPV. The high risk HPV16 was detected in three cases whereas in the fourth case an unclassifiable HPV genotype was present. In all DNA samples, beta-globin amplification was successful.

Conclusions: Our results indicate that HPV and in particular HPV16 may play an aetiological role in the development of TCC in renal transplant patients.