P16 EXPRESSION IN DIFFERENT STAGES OF ORAL SQUAMOUS CELL CARCINOMA IN TWIN CITIES HOSPITALS

Introduction: Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is a prevalent head and neck cancer, with p16 expression serving as a key prognostic biomarker, particularly in HPV-related cases. Its role in OSCC staging and prognosis remains critical, especially in regions like Pakistan with unique risk factor profiles Objective: To evaluate p16 expression patterns across different stages of OSCC in patients from twin cities’ hospitals in Pakistan and assess its prognostic significance. Materials and Method: This cross-sectional study, conducted at Pakistan Institute of Medical Science (PIMS), Islamabad in the duration from January 2024 to December 2024, included 80 treatment-naïve OSCC patients. Formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded tissues were analyzed using immunohistochemistry for p16 expression, correlated with clinical stage and histological grade. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS (p<0.05). Results: Of 80 cases (mean age 54.2 years, 70% male), p16 positivity was observed in 51.25%, predominantly in early-stage (Stage I: 87.5%, Stage II: 65.2%) and well-differentiated tumors (81.2%). Advanced stages (III–IV) and poorly differentiated tumors showed lower p16 expression (p<0.05). Conclusion: P16 expression is significantly associated with early-stage and well-differentiated OSCC, indicating its potential as a prognostic biomarker for improved patient stratification and treatment planning.