Improving Detection and Early Action for HPV-positive Oropharynx Cancer

Improving Detection and Early Action for HPV-positive Oropharynx Cancer

This study aims to determine whether a blood test for HPV DNA can improve diagnosis of HPV-positive oropharynx cancer (HPV-OPC).

The diagnosis of HPV-OPC is often delayed. In this study, individuals with signs or symptoms potentially related to HPV-OPC, such as unexplained throat pain, tonsil or tongue base asymmetry, or a neck mass, will have their blood tested for circulating HPV DNA. A positive test may indicate that their symptoms are caused by HPV-OPC, and their treating physician will be encouraged to complete all the necessary testing to determine whether this is the case.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Neck mass present for >2 weeks with no signs/symptoms of infection
• Neck mass present for >2 weeks with signs/symptoms of infection that did not resolve with antibiotic therapy
• Palatine or lingual tonsillar asymmetry on physical exam
• Palatine or lingual tonsillar asymmetry on imaging, including asymmetric FDG uptake in palatine or lingual tonsils on PET-CT scans
• Unexplained throat pain for >2 weeks that did not resolve with antibiotic therapy

Exclusion Criteria:

• Known diagnosis of HPV-OPC