Human Papillomavirus and Oropharyngeal Cancer

Human papillomavirus –associated oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (HPV-OPSCC) comprises approximately 25% of all head and neck cancers (head and neck squamous cell carcinoma, HNSCC). Epidemiologic studies have shown a dramatic increase of HPV-OPSCC in the past 2 decades, whereas tobacco-related HNSCC rates are de creasing worldwide. The distinctions between HPV-OPSCC and oral cavity cancers are now reflected in the most recent editions of the World Health Organization Classification of Tumors of the Head and Neck and the American Joint Committee on Cancer Staging Manual, respectively. This review describes c urrent understanding of the link between HPV infection and OPSCC.
Source: Dental Clinics of North America - Category: Dentistry Authors: Source Type: research