Aetiology of nasopharyngeal carcinoma. A review

The present overview is based on recent available information on nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) from various parts of the world including India. The available data suggests that NPC is a rare tumour in most parts of the world. But the incidence is higher in China and South East Asia and also among the Chinese wherever they have migrated. NPC is also relatively higher especially among the mongoloid group of the people in the North Eastern Region of India as compared to other parts of the country. The distinct geographical and ethnic distribution of NPC have stimulated much research to find out its etiology. The results suggest that Epstein Barr Virus (EBV) infection and genetic susceptibility are the constant aetiological factors for the higher incidence of NPC among various ethnic groups while other factors such as ingestants and inhalants may depend on the distinct dietary practices and living environment adopted by various ethnic groups in different geographical region of the world.