Anal human papilloma viral infection and squamous cell carcinoma: Need objective biomarkers for risk assessment and surveillance guidelines

High grade anal intraepithelial neoplasia due to human papilloma viral (HPV) infections is a precursor lesion for squamous cell carcinoma especially in high risk populations. Frequent examination and anal biopsies remain unpopular with patients; moreover they are also risk factors for chronic pain, scarring and sphincter injury. There is lack of uniform, surveillance methods and guidelines for anal HPV specifically the intervals between exam and biopsies. The aim of this editorial is to discuss the intervals for surveillance exam and biopsy, based on specific HPV related biomarkers? Currently there are no published randomized controlled trials documenting the effectiveness of anal screening and surveillance programs to reduce the incidence, morbidity and mortality of anal cancers. In contrast, the currently approved screening and surveillance methods available for HPV related cervical cancer includes cytology, HPV DNA test, P16 or combined P16/Ki-67 index and HPV E/6 and E/7 mRNA test. There are very few studies performed to determine the efficacy of these tests in HPV related anal pre-cancerous lesions. The relevance of these biomarkers is discussed in this editorial. Longitudinal prospective research is needed to confirm the effectiveness of these molecular biomarkers that include high risk HPV serotyping, P16 immuno-histiochemistry and E6/E7 mRNA profiling on biopsies to elucidate and establish surveillance guidelines.