The pathology of HPV-related head and neck Cancer: Implications for the diagnostic pathologist

A subset of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). This HPV-related form of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HPV-HNSCC) has captured the attention of the oncology community for its rising incidence, its link to non-traditional risk factors, and its divergent clinical behavior. To diagnose this special form of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma is to provide important prognostic information and, in some instances, redirect clinical therapy. The diagnosis of HPV-HNSCC is aided by a strong appreciation for its characteristic microscopic findings and by an awareness of aberrant features that set apart a growing list of HPV-HNSCC morphologic variants.
Source: Seminars in Diagnostic Pathology - Category: Pathology Authors: Source Type: research