RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN PAPILLOMAVIRUS (HPV) AND ORAL MALIGNANT TUMOR

Abstract

Objective: This study aims to review the scientific literature about the human papillomavirus (HPV). Material and Methods: Searches were carried out in the virtual library in health database using the descriptor papilloma virus. Results: HPV belongs to Papovaridae family, whose some members are responsible for common and anogenital warts, and also nasopharynx papilloma. This virus has a genome of double-stranded DNA combined with histones to form a complex similar to a chromosome contained in a foreign viral capsid protein. HPV has been linked to the development of malignant tumors in some regions where infection usually occurs. The highest incidence sites in women are: perineum, vulva, vagina, cervix and anus; in men, it affects primarily the penis, urethra, scrotum and anus. In addition to these areas, studies have shown the presence of high-risk HPV and its possible association with the onset of malignant lesions in the oral cavity and oropharynx. Such potential carcinogenicity is probably related to two viral proteins, E6 and E7, which are capable of interacting with other proteins that regulate the cell cycle. Conclusion: This review shows that as the knowledge about the human papillomavirus (HPV) advances, new perspectives are opened to understand and properly handle the lesions induced by this virus. Among the more than 100 types of HPV identified thus far, about 24 types were associated with oral lesions, being HPV type 16 the most prevalent one in both oral and genital lesions. DESCRIPTORS Papilloma virus. Cancer. Oropharynx.