Herpesviruses in Head and Neck Cancers

Viruses. 2020 Feb 3;12(2):172. doi: 10.3390/v12020172.

Abstract

Head and neck cancers arise in the mucosa lining the oral cavity, oropharynx, hypopharynx, larynx, sinonasal tract, and nasopharynx. The etiology of head and neck cancers is complex and involves many factors, including the presence of oncogenic viruses. These types of cancers are among the most common cancers in the world. Thorough knowledge of the pathogenesis of viral infections is needed to fully understand their impact on cancer development.

Keywords: head and neck cancers; herpesviruses; oncogenic viruses.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Carcinoma, Squamous Cell / virology
  • Head and Neck Neoplasms / virology*
  • Herpesviridae / pathogenicity*
  • Humans
  • Mice