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Pathology · single question

Regarding HPV and oropharyngeal cancer: which statement is TRUE?

  1. HPV is the most common cause of oropharyngeal cancer in the United States
  2. HIV is more commonly associated with oropharyngeal SCC than HPV
  3. HPV-18 is the primary subtype causing oropharyngeal cancer
  4. Oropharyngeal HPV cancers have a worse prognosis than tobacco-associated cases
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Correct answer: A. HPV is the most common cause of oropharyngeal cancer in the United States

HPV (specifically HPV-16) is now the leading cause of oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OPSCC) in the United States, surpassing tobacco and alcohol. HPV-positive OPSCCs tend to affect younger, non-smoking patients and have a better prognosis than HPV-negative tobacco-associated cancers. They respond better to radiation and chemotherapy. The tonsils and base of tongue are the most common sites.

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