Exploring the Link between DNA Hypermethylation and HPV in Salivary Gland Tumors

Salivary gland tumors (SGTs) pose considerable diagnostic and treatment challenges due to their heterogeneous nature, diverse histogenesis, and unpredictable clinical outcomes. Benign tumors exhibit a known recurrence rate, whereas malignant tumors are associated with a poor prognosis and a low recovery rate. Nonetheless, despite the growing body of research, there is insufficient evidence to establish a link between SGTs, human papilloma virus (HPV) infection, and the hypermethylation of tumor suppressor genes. The aim of this study is to elucidate the relationship between DNA hypermethylation and HPV in SGTs, elucidate the role of DNA hypermethylation in HPV-associated SGTs, thereby offering insights into novel diagnostic, and prognostic markers. As epigenetic alterations significantly contribute to the development of carcinogenesis, addressing these epigenetic alterations may help in early treatment plans and early detection of SGTs.