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An infection with a high-risk strain of the human papillomavirus, particularly HPV type 16, leads to HPV-related head and neck lesions. The oropharynx, which includes the tonsils, base of the tongue, and soft palate, is where these lesions happen the most. Oral intercourse is the major way that the disease spreads, and it can stay in the body for a long time without showing any symptoms. Over time, a chronic HPV infection can cause cells to alter, which can lead to benign lesions or cancer.

HPV-related lesions can show up in the clinic as ulcers that won't heal, exophytic growths, sore throats, trouble swallowing, voice changes, or unexplained neck swelling because of lymph node involvement. HPV-positive head and neck cancers are more common in younger people with few established risk factors than tobacco-related malignancies. A diagnosis is made through a clinical evaluation, imaging, a biopsy, and confirmation with HPV DNA testing or p16 immunohistochemistry.

Depending on the form and stage of the lesion, treatment might range from surgery to radiation therapy and chemotherapy for cancerous disease. It's important to note that malignancies linked to HPV usually respond better to treatment and have a better outlook. HPV vaccination, raising public awareness, and frequent screenings are all important ways to lower the number of HPV-related head and neck lesions.