New york: A type of the human papillomavirus (HPV) commonly found on the skin can cause a form of skin cancer, according to a new research published on Wednesday. The study, published in the New England Journal of Medicine, found that this type of HPV, beta-HPV, previously thought to only contribute to skin cancer, can actually directly cause it.

According to Anadolu Agency, the research revealed that the virus replicated in an uncontrolled manner, integrating into the skin cells and transforming them into cancerous cells. Andrea Lisco, the senior author of the study, noted that this discovery challenges previous beliefs regarding the virus's potential effects on humans. The case of a 34-year-old woman was highlighted, where her squamous cell carcinoma, a type of skin cancer, repeatedly returned on her forehead despite multiple treatments.

Initially, doctors suspected sun damage and a weak immune system as the culprits, but further investigation revealed that the beta-HPV virus had inserted itself into her skin cells' DNA. This viral integration led to the production of viral proteins, taking control of the cells and causing cancerous transformations. This marks the first time beta-HPV has been shown to behave in such a manner, altering the understanding of its role in skin cancer development.

The research emphasizes that beta-HPV is prevalent, with about 90% of people carrying a strain of the virus. Typically, it resides on the skin without merging into the skin cell DNA. Lisco pointed out that while beta-HPV is common and easily transmitted through everyday contact, a robust immune system usually keeps it in check.

Lisco further explained that this discovery might revolutionize the approach to understanding the development and treatment of cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC) in individuals with compromised immune systems. This could lead to new strategies in managing skin cancer for patients with health conditions affecting immune function.