Prevalence of Chlamydia pneumoniae Infection in Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the Head and Neck

Abstract

On the basis of epidemiological data, an association between Chlamydia pneumoniae (Cp) infection and head and neck cancer might be suggested. The aim of the present study was to detect Cp-DNA within tumour tissue specimens by a two-step polymerase chain reaction. Investigation was planned on the Fleming's procedure for early termination when initial results were extreme. So, after ten consecutive patients, only one tumour contained Cp-DNA. Hence the prevalence could be regarded as inferior to 60% (2a=b=0.08), the threshold under which a direct role of Cp in head and neck cancer development does not seem to be likely.