Relação do Papiloma Vírus Humano com o câncer de orofaringe

Abstract

Human Papillomavirus (HPV) has emerged as a significant carcinogenic agent associated with the development of malignant neoplasms in the oropharyngeal cavity. Infection by this virus has been identified in young patients, who may or may not present the traditional risk factors such as tobacco use and excessive alcohol consumption. This study aims to investigate, through a comprehensive literature review, the carcinogenic properties of HPV in the oropharyngeal region, highlighting its growing importance in the public health context. The findings of this research emphasize the urgency of raising awareness about HPV infection and its consequences for oropharyngeal cancer, in addition to stressing the need for effective strategies for prevention and early diagnosis. In this study, the descriptors "Human papillomavirus" and "Oropharyngeal Neoplasms" were used in searches conducted in the PubMed Central, ScienceDirect, and BVS Brasil databases. Articles that provided full access and comprehensively addressed the topic were selected. In conclusion, HPV-induced lesions in the oropharynx present similar characteristics, making differentiation through clinical examinations alone challenging. Thus, the dentist plays a crucial role in the early identification of these lesions and must be trained to guide patients regarding the need for exams and the importance of vaccination.