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Risk factors for esophageal cancer: emphasis on infectious agents
Hala El-Zimaity1, Vincenzo Di Pilato2, Maria Novella Ringressi3,4
1Dynacare Laboratories, Brampton, Ontario, Canada.
Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences
|June 1, 2018
Summary
Infectious agents like human papillomavirus (HPV) and Helicobacter pylori are key risk factors in esophageal cancer development. This review examines how these microbes influence esophageal squamous cell carcinoma and adenocarcinoma.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Oncology
- Gastroenterology
Background:
- Esophageal cancer risk factors include genetics and infectious agents.
- The role of the esophageal microbiome in carcinogenesis is under investigation.
- Specific viruses and bacteria are implicated in esophageal carcinogenesis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the normal esophageal flora and its control.
- To explore organisms directly and indirectly affecting esophageal carcinogenesis.
- To examine the role of HPV and H. pylori in esophageal cancer.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on esophageal flora and carcinogenesis.
- Analysis of direct and indirect mechanisms of microbial involvement.
- Focus on human papillomavirus (HPV) and Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori).
Main Results:
- Human papillomavirus (HPV) is linked to squamous cell carcinoma and esophageal adenocarcinoma (EAC) dysplasia.
- Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) indirectly promotes EAC via acid reflux and reduced sphincter pressure.
- Atrophic gastritis may mitigate H. pylori-associated EAC risk.
Conclusions:
- Microbial agents play a significant role in esophageal cancer development.
- Understanding the esophageal microbiome is crucial for cancer prevention and treatment.
- Targeting specific infectious agents may offer novel therapeutic strategies.
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