Human papillomavirus positive oropharyngeal cancer: The general information

Oropharyngeal squamous cell cancer (OPSCC) and especially Human papilloma virus positive (HPV+) OPSCC incidence is increasing worldwide over the last decades while the incidence of overall head and neck squamous cancers has declined in developed countries. HPV + OPSCC has favorable prognosis and is seen in younger patients with lower exposure to tobacco and alcohol. This review will summarize our current understanding about HPV + OPSCC and clinical differences comparing with HPV − OPSCC including current therapy approaches and describe the clinical importance of determining the HPV status.