Start practicing

Pathology · single question

Each of the following is TRUE regarding human papillomavirus (HPV) EXCEPT:

  1. It is associated with oral squamous cell carcinoma
  2. It infects basal epithelial cells
  3. HPV 16 and 18 are high-risk (malignant) strains
  4. The HPV vaccine protects against viral strains that cause cancer
Show answer and explanation

Correct answer: A. It is associated with oral squamous cell carcinoma

  • A. Correct (the EXCEPTION). High-risk HPV is strongly linked to OROPHARYNGEAL squamous cell carcinoma (tonsil/base of tongue), not to conventional oral SCC, which is driven mainly by tobacco/alcohol.
  • B. True. HPV infects and replicates in basal epithelial cells through micro-abrasions.
  • C. True. HPV 16 and 18 are the principal high-risk oncogenic strains.
  • D. True. The vaccine targets the oncogenic strains (e.g., 16/18) and prevents associated cancers.

Practice Pathology questions Pathology study notes

More Pathology practice questions