Hamartomatous polyps of the palatine tonsil are rare benign tumors ,so far  not genetically investigated. ¹
There is clear distinction between HPV-associated and HPV-independent oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinomas (OPSCCs}. HPV-associated OPSCCs are caused by high-risk HPV, with type 16 responsible for approximately 90% of all cases, while HPV-independent OPSCCs are caused by the accumulation of DNA damage in surface mucosa from exposure to carcinogens, mainly from tobacco and alcohol use. ^2,3
Mutations in PIK3CA predominate in HPV-associated tumors, whereas TP53 is the most frequently mutated gene in HPV-independent tumors (41%) Loss of PTEN  is common, independent of HPV status. HPV-associated OPSSCs have a better prognosis than HPV-independent OPSCCs, with better sensitivity to radiation and better overall survival.