Pathology · single question
HPV infection of the oral cavity is most strongly associated with which type of cancer?
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: A. Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC)
- A. Correct. HPV (particularly HPV-16) is strongly associated with oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), especially in the tonsillar and base of tongue regions. HPV-positive oropharyngeal SCC is now more common than tobacco-related SCC in younger patients.
- B. Basal cell carcinoma occurs on skin (sun-exposed areas) and is not caused by HPV.
- C. Mucoepidermoid carcinoma is a salivary gland malignancy not associated with HPV.
- D. Adenocarcinoma arises from glandular epithelium; HPV is not a recognized cause.