Ask the Expert: Question about Treatment and HPV Status

Question: If my cancer is HPV positive, does that change my treatment?

Response: Great question, this is a hot area of research. HPV status has tremendous prognostic potential. Currently there are many studies looking at deintensifying treatment for HPV positive oropharynx cancer. There are many national and institutional clinical trials that are open for HPV positive cancers. In the setting of a clinical trial, HPV positivity may change your treatment. However, as I mention in response to another question, latest NCCN guidelines do not recommend directing treatment based upon HPV status, thus, any treatment deintensification based upon HPV status should be done in the context of a clinical trial.

Dr. Kang is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Otolaryngology – Head & Neck Surgery at The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center – James Cancer Hospital and Solove Research Institute (OSUCCC – James) , specializing in the comprehensive management of benign and malignant head and neck tumors. Click the following links to learn more about Dr. Kang and the OSUCCC– James: https://cancer.osu.edu/find-a-doctor/search-physician-directory/stephen-y-kang and https://cancer.osu.edu/.

The Ask the Expert Guest Moderator is not intended to be a substitute for healthcare professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Speak to your healthcare provider about any questions you may have regarding your health.