Human Papillomavirus and Retinoblastoma: Evidence From a Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Cross-Sectional Studies

Objectives: To study the prevalence and the association of HPV infection in retinoblastoma and to determine the most common genotype presented in RB.Methods: Following the PRIMSA guideline, 14 studies reporting HPV infection in RB acquired from six databases were included.Results: The prevalence of HPV from 941 RB samples was 15.6% [95% confidence interval (CI): 7.3-30]. Mexico followed by India and Brazil had the highest HPV prevalence in RB samples, 61.7% (95% CI: 17-93), 22.5% (95% CI: 9-47), and 12.1% (95% CI: 2-52), in order. HPV 16 was the most common genotype presented in RB samples 23% (95% CI: 9-47), followed by HPV 18 10% (95% CI: 3-30) and the combined HPV 16-18 6% (95% CI: 0-50). We did not find a significant association between HPV and RB [odds ratio (OR): 12.2; 95% CI: 0.65-232; p = 0.09]. However, after removing the largest-weighted study, a significant association between HPV and RB was observed (OR: 45.9; 95% CI; 8.6-245; p < 0.001).Conclusion: HPV prevalence in RB samples was 15% and HPV 16 was the most presented genotype in RB samples. There may be an association between HPV and RB that is needed to be confirmed by high quality future studies. Preventive and treatment measures against HPV infection are essential for the prevention of any possible consequences, in particular, RB.

Automated summary

This study found that the prevalence of HPV infection in retinoblastoma (RB) samples was 15%, with HPV 16 being the most common genotype. Mexico, India, and Brazil had the highest HPV prevalence in RB samples. Although the association between HPV and RB was not significant, it was observed to be significant after excluding a study with substantial weight.