Exploring the link between microorganisms and oral cancer: A systematic review of the literature

• Published in: Head & neck Vol. 31; no. 9; pp. 1228 - 1239
• Main Authors: Hooper, Samuel J., Wilson, Melanie J., Crean, St. John
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Hoboken Wiley Subscription Services, Inc., A Wiley Company 01.09.2009; Wiley
• Subjects: Bacteria - isolation & purification; Bacteria - metabolism; bacterial infection; Bacterial Infections - complications; Biological and medical sciences; Candida; carcinogenesis; Humans; Medical sciences; Mouth Neoplasms - etiology; Mouth Neoplasms - microbiology; Mycoses - complications; oral cancer; oral microflora; Otorhinolaryngology. Stomatology; Tumors; Upper respiratory tract, upper alimentary tract, paranasal sinuses, salivary glands: diseases, semeiology; Candidiasis; Mycosis; Oral cancer; Stomatology; Oral administration; Microflora; ENT; Malignant tumor; Review; bacterial infection; Carcinogenesis; Fungi; Infection; Candida; Bacteriosis; oral microflora; Oral cavity disease; Fungi Imperfecti; Microorganism; Bibliographic review; Cancer
• ISSN: 1043-3074; 1097-0347
• DOI: 10.1002/hed.21140

The majority of cases of oral cancer have been related to tobacco use and heavy alcohol consumption. However, the incidence of oral cavity carcinoma appears to be increasing in many parts of the world in a manner that it is difficult to explain with traditional risk factors alone. Meanwhile, interest in the possible relationships between microorganisms and the different stages of cancer development has been rising and numerous mechanisms by which bacteria and yeast may initiate or promote carcinogenesis are currently under investigation. In particular, a persuasive body of evidence suggests a possible etiological role involving the metabolism and production of carcinogenic products, such as acetaldehyde. Other suggested mechanisms include the induction of chronic inflammation and direct interference with eukaryotic cell cycle and signaling pathways. This review aims to summarize the known associations between microbial infection and cancer and draw attention to how they may relate to oral carcinoma. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck, 2009