VIRUS DEL PAPILOMA HUMANO COMO FACTOR ETIOPATOGÉNICO EN EL DESARROLLO DE CÁNCER ORO FARÍNGEO: REVISIÓN BIBLIOGRÁFICA

Abstract

Human Papillomavirus (HPV) has been identified as a significant etiological factor in the development of oropharyngeal cancer, particularly squamous cell carcinoma. The objective of this review was to evaluate the relationship between HPV infection, the incidence, progression and prognosis of oropharyngeal cancer. Methodology: An exhaustive literature review was carried out in databases such as PubMed, Scopus and Google Scholar, using keywords related to HPV and oropharyngeal cancer. Studies were included from 2019 to 2023, covering clinical investigations, epidemiological analyzes and reviews. Studies revealed that HPV, especially serotype 16, is associated with an increase in the incidence of oropharyngeal cancer, mainly affecting younger patients and with fewer traditional risk factors. HPV-positive patients had a better prognosis and survival compared to HPV-negative patients. The review also highlighted the importance of vaccination as a preventive strategy. HPV is a key etiopathogenic factor in oropharyngeal cancer, with significant implications for the prognosis and clinical management of the disease. Vaccination emerges as a crucial tool in prevention. However, there is a need to improve vaccination rates and early detection to effectively combat the disease.