Infezione orale da Human papillomavirus: dalla verruca al carcinoma orale. Epidemiologia, clinica, prevenzione e terapia

Objectives. The aim of this study is to examine the epidemiology and clinical manifestations of oral infections by Human papillomavirus (HPV), especially related to potentially malignant lesions. Materials and methods. A systematic review has been carried out with an aim to describe the state of the art about oropharyngeal HPV infection, its mode of transmission and the possible simultaneous infection in multiple anatomical sites. Moreover, the review focuses on prevention by vaccines and campaigns of sex education, as well as treatment protocols, whenever necessary. Results and conclusions. In recent years, medical literature has demonstrated a growing interest in HPV infections of the oral cavity and oropharynx, in view of scientific evidence suggesting a role of this viral family in the oropharyngeal district and in the uterine cervix carcinogenesis. Moreover, the media have increasingly addressed the issue and frequently spread alarm among dental patients. The dentist is therefore expected to have a thorough and updated knowledge relating to this infectious condition, which is one of the most common causes of sexually transmitted infections of the mucous membranes (genital, anal and oral). Whatever specialty area a dentist is pursuing, the knowledge of these concepts is a basic requirement for promoting the health of patients and for providing them with comprehensive information about this topic.