Papillomavirus and cervical cancer: Epidemiology, genetics and prevention [Il papillomavirus umano e il cancro della cervice uterina: Epidemiologia, basi genetiche e prevenzione]

Papillomavirus (HPV) is the first virus recognized as the etiologic agent of a widespread cancer in humans. HPV is also associated with several other epithelial cancers, therefore its role as etiologic agent of carcinoma may be wider than currently known. The pathogenetic events related to tumor transformations are based upon interactions between HPV proteins E6 and E7 and cellular proteins playing a key role in the homeostasis of cell cycle. Their disregulation alters cell cycle functions, and activates loops that ultimately cause cell transformation and uncontrolled growth. The clear-cut correlation between HPV and cancer makes mandatory the availability of massive screenings able to precisely detect the circulation of oncogenic subtypes of HPV, and to assess the potential evolution of the HPV-related disease. The availability of vaccines with demonstrated ability to control HPV infection and development of pre-cancerous lesions makes even more relevant the screening of HPV, and the correct positioning of HPV-vaccines in the public health campaigns aimed at controlling the spread of this virus. © Copyright 2008, CIC Edizioni Internazionali, Roma.