The relationship between p53 and the malignant transformation of nasal inverted papilloma: a meta-analysis

Abstract Background The nasal inverted papilloma (NIP) is a neoplasm that originates from the mucosal lining of the nasal cavity and paranasal sinuses. A meta-analysis was conducted to investigate the link between p53 dysregulation and prognosis in patients with NIP. Methods Relevant original articles were identified through a comprehensive search in the PubMed, EMBASE, and Web of Science databases up until January 14, 2025. Results The studies showed low heterogeneity ( I 2 = 31%), allowing the use of the fixed effect model (FEM). The forest plot revealed a significant association between p53 dysregulation and the malignant transformation and progression of NIP, with an odds ratio (OR) of 7.93 (95% CI 4.74–13.28, P < 0.001). Sensitivity analysis indicated a pooled OR ranging from 7.13 (95% CI 4.19–12.11, P < 0.001) to 11.39 (95% CI 6.00–21.60, P < 0.001). Significant correlations were also found in subgroups based on region, publication year, and Newcastle–Ottawa Scale (NOS) scores. Moreover, Begg's test ( P = 0.26) and Egger's test ( P = 0.57) results suggested a low risk of publication bias. Conclusions The meta-analysis underscores the strong relationship between p53 dysregulation and the malignant transformation of NIP. The practical applications of identifying p53 dysregulation in NIP patients have the potential to significantly impact clinical decision-making and patient outcomes.