Management of oropharyngeal cancer in the HPV Era: The prevalence of HPV-positive OPC continues to increase at an epidemic rate

Background: Historically, oropharyngeal cancer (OPC) has been attributed to risk factors such as smoking and alcohol use. The increased incidence of OPC has been driven by human papillomavirus (HPV) infection. Methods: A search of the literature involving HPV infection and OPC was performed, along w...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Cancer control 2016-07, p.197
Main Authors: Naghavi, Arash O, Strom, Tobin J, Ahmed, Kamran A, Echevarria, Michelle I, Abuodeh, Yazan A, Venkat, Puja S, Frakes, Jessica M, Harrison, Louis B, Trotti, Andy M, Caudell, Jimmy J
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Care and treatment
Development and progression
Papillomavirus infections
Throat cancer
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Summary:Background: Historically, oropharyngeal cancer (OPC) has been attributed to risk factors such as smoking and alcohol use. The increased incidence of OPC has been driven by human papillomavirus (HPV) infection. Methods: A search of the literature involving HPV infection and OPC was performed, along with a search of ongoing clinical trials regarding HPV-positive OPC. Results: This review summarizes the differences in epidemiology and prognosis of HPV-positive OPC compared with non-HPV-related OPC. It will also discuss use of de-escalating treatment to minimize toxicity while maintaining excellent outcomes. Disease management is also addressed, including prevention and follow-up recommendations for this cohort of patients. Conclusions: HPV-positive OPC is a distinct disease, and efforts should be made to personalize its management. Preventive measures and vaccinations, along with de-escalation of treatment, may help optimize outcomes in this population.
ISSN:1073-2748
1526-2359