HPV: Is It in Your DNA?

PROGRAM DESCRIPTION: This is an interactive panel discussing the most up-to-date evidence of the role of HPV in head and neck cancer incidence, treatment, and prognosis. It is now common knowledge in our field that HPV-associated oropharyngeal tumors are important to consider in all adults with a neck mass. The purpose of this panel will thus be to expand upon this knowledge and assist our colleagues in traversing controversial topics related to screening, testing for HPV in non-oropharyngeal subsites, and the difficult discussions with our patients related to HPV vaccination and current/future sexual behavior. Additionally, there is strong, emerging evidence regarding the use of circulating HPV DNA as an adjunct to traditional surveillance practices. This will be discussed at length with our expert panelists as this technology becomes more available.

OUTCOME OBJECTIVE 1: Interpret the evidence on HPV testing at diagnosis and in follow up for neck masses, unknown primary cancers, and non-oropharyngeal head and neck cancers including the use of circulating tumor DNA testing.

OUTCOME OBJECTIVE 2: Demonstrate clinician communication with patients (and families) regarding the diagnosis of an HPV-associated malignancy.

OUTCOME OBJECTIVE 3: Recognize the effectiveness of HPV-vaccination and review impact of vaccination on sexual behavior in teens.

BACKGROUND STATEMENT: There is emerging evidence for the use of circulating HPV DNA as an adjunct to routine surveillance. Education on appropriate patient counseling will be an important discussion as it pertains to the risk of infecting partners and recommendations regarding sexual behavior.