Biomarkers for oesophageal squamous cell carcinoma and the role of HPV: Multi‑omics approaches and current evidence (Review).

Oesophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) represents a major global health burden, particularly in regions with high incidence rates, significantly affecting patient quality of life and survival outcomes. Recent advances in multi‑omics technologies have highlighted their potential in identifying prognostic markers for ESCC. Concurrently, the possible association between human papillomavirus (HPV) infection and ESCC development has been investigated, although epidemiological evidence remains heterogeneous and a definitive causal role has not been universally established. This narrative review examines the progress in multi‑omics approaches for identifying prognostic markers of ESCC and provides a comprehensive analysis of the latest developments in HPV detection methods. Research from genomic, transcriptomic, proteomic, epigenomic, metabolomic, and immunomic studies was synthesized highlighting both promising biomarkers and the significant heterogeneity in reported results, particularly regarding HPV prevalence rates across various geographical regions and detection methods. The research included not only offers novel insights into the pathogenesis of ESCC but also lays a theoretical foundation for early diagnosis and personalized treatment; however, most findings remain investigational and require prospective validation before clinical implementation. The clinical implications and future research directions are discussed with consideration of current limitations.