Human Insulin-Like Growth Factor II mRNA-Binding Protein 3 (IMP3) and p16 Expression in Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the Head and Neck

Background Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) represents a substantial global health problem due to its considerable incidence and frequent presentation at advanced stages. The validation of biomarkers is essential to facilitate early detection and prognosis and inform targeted therapeutic interventions which can contribute to improved clinical outcomes. This study investigates the immunohistochemical expression patterns of two promising biomarkers: the oncofetal protein human insulin-like growth factor II mRNA-binding protein 3 (IMP3) and the tumour suppressor p16. IMP3, normally expressed during embryogenesis, is aberrantly re-expressed in malignancies and linked to tumour progression and poor outcomes. Conversely, p16 overexpression is frequently linked to human papillomavirus (HPV)-related carcinogenesis and is considered a favorable prognostic marker in HNSCC. Materials and methods A cross-sectional study of 50 HNSCC cases over 18 months evaluated IMP3 and p16 expression and correlated findings with clinicopathological variables (demographics, site, grade, stage, tobacco/alcohol use). Immunohistochemistry followed standard protocols with appropriate positive and negative controls. Statistical analyses used the chi-squared and Fisher's exact tests where applicable. Results and conclusions IMP3 was positive in 27 (54%) and p16 in six (12%) of HNSCC cases. The markers were mutually exclusive and showed significant associations with gender and tobacco use. IMP3 expression was higher in males (p < 0.05), while p16 correlated with specific risk factors, consistent with HPV-related pathways. Their mutual exclusivity suggests distinct molecular mechanisms in HNSCC. These differential patterns support IMP3 and p16 as complementary biomarkers for patient stratification and tailored management strategies. Further studies integrating molecular HPV status and long-term follow-up are needed to validate prognostic and therapeutic relevance.