Uwaga problem – wirus onkogenny HPV a nowotwory jamy ustnej i gardła
Current epidemiological and molecular research has confirmed that HPV (human papillomavirus) infection is strongly associated with malignant tumors of the mouth and throat. HPV infection is currently considered to be one of the main causes of the growing incidence of squamous cell carcinoma in the oropharynx and oral cavity, in particular among populations of developed countries. HPV-positive cancers are characterized by a different from non-viral clinical image, epidemiology, risk factors and treatment protocols. Therefore, it deserves special attention and separate treatment. In recent years, there has been a significant increase in the incidence of HPV-positive carcinomas in the world, especially in the group of patients under 50 years of age. All of these factors lead to the conclusion, that redefinition of risk groups for cancer of this area and updating of protocols and prophylaxis is needed. Younger patients should be provided with oral cancer prevention programs, it is also advisable to promote vaccinations. The article describes current epidemiological status and the state of knowledge about HPV positive cancers of mouth and throat region.