Induction of cervical neoplasia in the mouse by an extract of cells infected by varicella-zoster virus

Abstract

Since several human herpesviruses, including varicellazoster virus (VZV), have been demonstrated to transform mammalian cells in vitro, VZV was tested in a mouse model of virus-induced cervical neoplasia to determine whether it is oncogenic in vivo. Herpes simplex viruses types 1 and 2 and cytomegalovirus have been previously shown to induce cervical neoplasia in this mouse model. VZV was propagated in WI-38 cell cultures and inactivated by ultraviolet irradiation. Control material was prepared in an identical manner from uninfected cell cultures. Cotton tampons, saturated with inactivated virus or control material, were inserted into the vaginas of C57BL mice three times a week for 60 weeks. Cervical dysplasia was detected in 40 % and invasive carcinoma in 34 % of virus-exposed mice by histological examination. No lesions were detected in control animals. These observations indicate that VZV, or some product of virus-infected cells, is oncogenic in vivo for the mouse cervix.

High Aggressive Herpetiform Squamous Cell Carcinoma

“…This case report highlights the possibility of VZV’s oncogenic potential in humans as already established in animal models. 4 After our experience with this case, we would recommend early biopsy of suspicious lesions arising in a zosteriform distribution. Early complete excision of carcinoma is recommended, as it may represent a more aggressive variant than the “common SCC.” CT staging should also be considered, as the lesion could represent the cutaneous manifestation of widespread metastasis.…”

“…VZV comes from the herpesviridae family well known for its link to cancer in humans. 2 – 4 Additionally, animal models have proved its oncogenic potential. 4 This case and the case described by Mishra and Raji 16 challenge current epidemiological studies regarding VZV’s cancer causing potential in humans.…”

“…It is well documented that several members of the herpesviridae family are oncogenic: herpes virus type 8, 2 Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), 3 cytomegalovirus (CMV), and herpes simplex virus types 1 and 2 (HSV 1 and 2). 4 CMV, EBV, and HSV 1 and 2 all induce transformation in culture, 5 and HSV 2, CMV, and EBV have been reported with human malignancies. 2 – 4 …”

“… 4 CMV, EBV, and HSV 1 and 2 all induce transformation in culture, 5 and HSV 2, CMV, and EBV have been reported with human malignancies. 2 – 4 …”

“… 6 An animal model study demonstrated oncogenic effects of VZV and its products on the mouse cervical cells. 4 However, there is no epidemiological evidence to suggest that VZV is an oncogenic virus. 4 …”