Human papilloma virus in head and neck cancer

Abstract

Head and neck cancer has long been associated with smoking and alcohol, with the majority of cases occurring in elderly men. However, there is now growing evidence that the incidence of head and neck cancer is increasing in younger people of both sexes. This increase has been linked to a new causative change in head and neck cancer - the human papilloma virus (HPV). HPV-associated head and neck cancer typically presents at a more advanced stage than HPV-negative disease, yet it is associated with increased survival and greater response to chemoradiation. It is therefore important for GPs to be able to identify patients at risk of this disease, thus allowing prompt referral to secondary care. This article examines the causes, presentation and management of HPV-associated head and neck cancer in order to increase awareness of this disease in general practice.