HPV throat cancer can potentially come back, although it is not common. The recurrence of the cancer depends on various factors such as the stage and aggressiveness of the initial cancer, as well as the effectiveness of the treatment received.
A more thorough response to your query
HPV throat cancer is a condition that may potentially recur, although it is not a common occurrence. The likelihood of cancer recurrence depends on several factors, including the stage and aggressiveness of the initial cancer, as well as the effectiveness of the treatment received. Patients who have undergone treatment for HPV throat cancer should continue to follow up with their healthcare providers for regular check-ups and screenings to monitor for any signs of recurrence.
While there is no way to guarantee that HPV throat cancer will not come back, it is important to note that the risk of recurrence decreases over time. According to the American Cancer Society, most recurrences of HPV-related oropharyngeal cancer occur within the first two years after treatment. However, it is still crucial for patients to remain vigilant and maintain close communication with their healthcare team even after this initial period.
Here are a few interesting facts about HPV throat cancer:
- HPV throat cancer is primarily caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, specifically strains HPV-16 and HPV-18.
- It is estimated that over 70% of oropharyngeal cancers in the United States are caused by HPV.
- HPV throat cancer is more common in men than in women.
- The symptoms of HPV throat cancer may include a persistent sore throat, difficulty swallowing, voice changes, and a lump in the neck.
- Vaccination against HPV can significantly reduce the risk of developing HPV-related throat cancer. The HPV vaccine is recommended for both males and females starting at the age of 11 or 12.
As for a quote on the topic, influential cancer researcher and physician, Dr. Siddhartha Mukherjee, once said, “To know that we can prevent cancer and that it will in the future become a preventable disease is indescribably important.” This statement underscores the significance of preventive measures, including HPV vaccination, in reducing the risk of HPV throat cancer and its potential recurrence.
Table:
| Factors Influencing the Risk of Recurrence |
|---|
| Stage of Initial Cancer |
| Aggressiveness of Initial Cancer |
| Effectiveness of Treatment |
| Smoking or Tobacco Use |
| Immune System Health |
| Alcohol Consumption |
| – |
Please note that this information is provided for educational purposes only and should not be considered as a substitute for medical advice. It is always important to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized information and guidance regarding specific medical conditions.
Response video to “Does HPV throat cancer come back?”
During this Q&A video, physicians from the Mayo Clinic discuss HPV-related tongue and tonsil cancer. They explain that HPV is a common virus that can lead to the development of these types of cancers in some individuals. HPV-related cancers have a different mechanism of generating cancer compared to traditional throat cancers caused by tobacco and alcohol exposure. These cancers tend to occur in younger, non-smoking individuals. The doctors emphasize the importance of early detection and treatment, as these cancers respond well to treatment if caught early. They discuss the symptoms of HPV-related tongue and tonsil cancer, such as a lump in the neck, and the importance of investigating any new lump in the neck through a biopsy. They also discuss the diagnostic process, staging, and individualized treatment options, including surgical removal, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. The value of a multidisciplinary clinic in determining the best treatment approach for these cancers is also highlighted, along with the benefits of transoral surgery. The use of radiation therapy, particularly proton therapy, is discussed, with a focus on minimizing damage to normal tissue and reducing long-term side effects. Overall, the video provides valuable information on HPV-related tongue and tonsil cancer and the various aspects of its diagnosis and treatment.
There are alternative points of view
Currently, nearly 80-90% of all oropharynx tumors are HPV-positive. In addition, it is now recognized that HPV-positive tumor status is associated with good prognosis and improved response to chemoradiation. However, within this setting, there are still patients with HPV-positive OPSCC who will experience recurrence.