A new discovery from American researchers may change how we understand the cause of certain types of skin cancer. A virus usually considered harmless on the skin has been found to directly contribute to cancer development in people with a specific immune defect.
A rare case leads to a breakthrough
The illness of a 34-year-old woman revealed an unexpected link between skin cancer and a virus normally not seen as dangerous.
Beta-HPV under suspicion
Scientists identified a particular group of skin HPV, known as beta-HPV, as a possible cancer trigger in this unique case.
From passive to aggressive
Beta-HPV is usually harmless because it doesn’t alter the DNA of skin cells — but here, the virus had embedded itself into the cells’ genetic material.
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A direct cancer driver
Tests showed that the virus not only allowed cancer to emerge but also played a role in sustaining the disease over time.
Repeated cases of skin cancer
The woman had squamous cell carcinoma on her forehead several times before doctors discovered the viral connection.
Immune system could repair UV damage
Initially, it was believed her cancer was caused by an inability to repair sun damage, but her immune cells handled that task effectively.
Hidden immune defect uncovered
A genetic flaw meant her immune cells didn’t activate properly when infected with beta-HPV, giving the virus free rein.
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Treatment with cell transplantation
She received healthy immune cells to replace the defective ones, keeping her free from both the virus and cancer for several years.
Others may face the same risk
Researchers believe other people may have the same hidden issue, turning a common virus into a cancer-causing factor.
A new view on skin cancer
This finding could change how skin cancer is understood in certain patients and open the door to new treatment strategies.
This article is based on information from Illustreret Videnskab
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