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Ethics & Law · single question

Which statement best describes HPV-negative oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma?

  1. It is more common in males but is strongly associated with tobacco and alcohol and carries a worse prognosis than HPV-positive disease
  2. It has an increasing incidence driven by sexual transmission
  3. It is primarily associated with HPV strains 16 and 18
  4. It has a better prognosis than HPV-positive oropharyngeal carcinoma
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Correct answer: A. It is more common in males but is strongly associated with tobacco and alcohol and carries a worse prognosis than HPV-positive disease

HPV-negative oropharyngeal carcinoma is classically linked to tobacco and alcohol use and has a worse prognosis than HPV-positive disease, which responds better to treatment.Other options: Rising incidence and HPV 16/18 association describe HPV-positive disease; HPV-positive (not negative) disease has the better prognosis.Key exam takeaway: HPV-positive oropharyngeal cancer = better prognosis; HPV-negative = tobacco/alcohol-related, worse prognosis.

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