INFECÇÃO PELO HPV E CARCINOGÊNESE EM TUMORES DE CABEÇA E PESCOÇO: MECANISMOS BIOLÓGICOS E IMPLICAÇÕES CLÍNICAS

Abstract

This article aimed to analyze the biological mechanisms involved in carcinogenesis associated with human papillomavirus infection in head and neck tumors, as well as its main clinical implications. This is an integrative literature review with a qualitative approach, conducted in April 2026, based on studies indexed in the LILACS, SciELO, DOAJ, and Latindex databases. Controlled descriptors combined with Boolean operators were used, including studies published between 2021 and 2026. The final sample consisted of 19 studies, selected after a rigorous screening process. The results showed that viral carcinogenesis is directly related to the action of E6 and E7 oncoproteins, responsible for cell cycle dysregulation, genomic instability, and evasion of apoptosis mechanisms. The involvement of cellular signaling pathways, epigenetic alterations, and immune evasion mechanisms in tumor progression was also observed. From a clinical perspective, HPV-associated tumors present a distinct biological profile, with better therapeutic response and more favorable prognosis. It is concluded that understanding the underlying molecular mechanisms is essential for advancing more effective diagnostic and therapeutic strategies, contributing to precision medicine.