[HPV infection in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). Highlights from ASCO 2010]

The human papillomavirus (HPV) is now understood to be important in the development of oropharyngeal cancers, particularly when other risk factors typically associated with this disease, such as smoking and nicotine abuse, are less evident. Case series have suggested that HPV-positive status is associated with better outcomes than HPV-negative status. The HPV status of patients with oropharyngeal cancer should be established before treatment commences. The risks and potential benefits of individual treatment modalities for patients with HPV-positive disease should be carefully considered with the aim of preserving quality of life, improving outcomes, and minimizing morbidity. The new data presented at ASCO will be discussed.