Objective: To review the literature on the role of oncogenic human papillomaviruses (HPVs) in the carcinogenesis of the head and neck mucosa.
Material and methods: Molecular and epidemiological studies concerning the high-risk HPV types and their role in carcinogenesis in the head and neck region were screened.
Results: Different studies revealed that: (i) 15-25% of head and neck squamous cell carcinomas (HNSCCs) are clonally associated with high risk HPV types (type 16); (ii) the oropharynx and particularly the tonsils are the most susceptible sites; (iii) patients with HPV-positive tumours present with more advanced stages of disease, are relatively younger, do not have extravagant tobacco and alcohol intake and seem to have a better survival; (iv) HPV-positive tumours are characterized by poor differentiation grade and a basaloid appearance; and (v) HPV-positive tumours exhibit integrated HPV DNA, wild-type p53, pRb downregulation and overexpression of p16INK4A.
Conclusion: Taken together, these data support the view that HPV-harbouring HNSCC can be considered a discrete tumour entity with, moreover, a favourable prognosis. Screening of patients, especially those with tonsillar cancers, for the presence of HPV may help to further optimize treatment protocols and to provide more accurate prognostic information.