Human papilloma virus DNA in Nongenital Seborrheic Keratosis

Seborrheic Keratoses (SK) are common, benign and often multiple skin tumors with disputed etiology. A follicular origin, late onset nevoid disturbance or local arrest in maturation of keratinocytes have been proposed. Human papilloma virus (HPV) has been detected in a small number of cases, particularly those from the genital region. The aim of our study was to evaluate the presence of HPV 6/11, 31 and 33 DNA in SK of nongenital regions. We examined 49 biopsy specimens of nongenital SK for the presence of HPV DNA using PCR technique (INNO-LiPA HPV Genotyping Extra). The SK specimens (n = 49) were negative for all HPV probes (types 6/11, 31 and 33) tested. Genital wart specimens (n = 2) were positive for types 6/11, 31 and 33 HPV DNA (positive controls); while chronic dermatitis specimens (n = 10) were negative for all HPV types (negative controls). Our study results demonstrate that HPV types 6/11, 31 and 33 cannot be causative in SK of nongenital regions.