Dismissing links between HPV and aggressive tongue cancer in young patients

Ann Oncol. 2010 Jan;21(1):13-7. doi: 10.1093/annonc/mdp380. Epub 2009 Oct 13.

Abstract

Background: The objective of this study is to disprove and dismiss etiological links between human papillomavirus (HPV) and aggressive tongue cancer in young patients.

Methods: Review of available literature with focus on presenting the epidemiological, histological and immunohistochemical arguments against an association between HPV and aggressive glossal neoplasm in younger populations.

Conclusion: HPV is not associated with the recent surge in the incidence of biologically aggressive oral cavity cancer in young populations.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Humans
  • Incidence
  • Papillomavirus Infections / complications*
  • Papillomavirus Infections / epidemiology
  • Tongue Neoplasms / epidemiology
  • Tongue Neoplasms / virology*
  • Young Adult